Question 1

Q: Which of the following is not a cause of oropharyngeal carcinoma?

Occupational exposure to hydrochloric acid. **Explanation:** The primary risk factors for oropharyngeal carcinoma (OPC) are lifestyle-related and viral, rather than chemical or industrial. **1. Why Option A is the Correct Answer:** Occupational exposure to **hydrochloric acid (HCl)** is primarily associated with dental erosion and irritation of the upper respiratory tract, but it is **not** a recognized carcinogen for the oropharynx. In contrast, exposure to strong inorganic acid mists (like sulfuric acid) is linked specifically to **laryngeal cancer**, not oropharyngeal cancer. **2. Analysis of Other Options:** * **Smoking (Option B):** Tobacco use is a classic risk factor. Carcinogens like nitrosamines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons cause field cancerization, leading to squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the entire aerodigestive tract. * **Human Papilloma Virus (Option C):** HPV (specifically **Type 16**) is now the leading cause of oropharyngeal cancer globally, especially involving the palatine tonsils and base of tongue. HPV-positive tumors have a better prognosis than tobacco-related ones. * **Isopropyl Oil (Option D):** Occupational exposure to the manufacture of isopropyl alcohol (specifically the "strong acid process" involving isopropyl oil) is a documented risk factor for cancers of the **paranasal sinuses and the oropharynx**. **Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Most Common Site:** The **palatine tonsil** is the most common site for oropharyngeal SCC. * **HPV Marker:** **p16** immunohistochemistry is used as a surrogate marker for HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancer. * **Plummer-Vinson Syndrome:** Associated with post-cricoid (hypopharyngeal) carcinoma, not primarily oropharyngeal. * **Diet:** Deficiencies in Vitamin A and C are also implicated in the development of oral and pharyngeal malignancies.

Question

Which of the following is not a cause of oropharyngeal carcinoma?

Accepted Answer

Occupational exposure to hydrochloric acid

Answer

Smoking

Answer

Human Papilloma Virus infection

Answer

Occupational exposure to isopropyl oil

ENT Oncology — MCQs

ENT Oncology — MCQs

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