As far as HPV goes, there is still much that is unknown about this disease. It is known to cause not only cancer of the oropharynx but also anal, cervical as well and genital warts. If between the ages of 12 and 26, the guardisil shot is available in a series of 3 shots. Getting children vaccinated prior to them reaching sexual maturity is their best bet at being protected against these diseases. Studies are being conducted to determine if the shot would help older, already exposed patients. Also a study is being done to see if lesser treatments can be given to HPV+ OC patients as they generally respond much better to certain OC treatments than non HPV patients. There is still so much to learn about HPV.

Christine
SCC 6/15/07 L chk & by L molar both Stag I, age44
2x cispltn-35 IMRT end 9/27/07
-65 lbs in 2 mo, no caregvr
Clear PET 1/08
4/4/08 recur L chk Stag I
surg 4/16/08 clr marg
215 HBO dives
3/09 teeth out, trismus
7/2/09 recur, Stg IV
8/24/09 trach, ND, mandiblctmy
3wks medicly inducd coma
2 mo xtended hospital stay, ICU & burn unit
PICC line IV antibx 8 mo
10/4/10, 2/14/11 reconst surg
OC 3x in 3 years
very happy to be alive smile