Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is characteristically associated with which virus, and what is its most common histological subtype in Southeast Asia?
- A HPV; squamous cell carcinoma, keratinising
- B EBV; undifferentiated carcinoma (WHO type III) ✓
- C CMV; adenocarcinoma
- D HHV-8; lymphoepithelioma
Correct answer: B. EBV; undifferentiated carcinoma (WHO type III)
Explanation
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is strongly associated with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). The WHO Type III (undifferentiated carcinoma, previously called lymphoepithelioma) is the most common subtype in endemic areas of Southeast Asia and southern China, while the keratinising type (WHO Type I) is more common in non-endemic regions. EBV VCA-IgA titres are used for screening and monitoring.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.