<p class="first" id="d8090599e101">In 1964, the first human oncovirus, Epstein-Barr
virus, was identified in Burkitt
lymphoma cells. Since then, 6 other human oncoviruses have been identified: human
papillomavirus, Merkel cell polyomavirus, hepatitis B and C viruses, human T-cell
lymphotropic virus-1, and human herpesvirus-8. These viruses are causally linked to
12% of all cancers, many of which have mucocutaneous manifestations. In addition,
oncoviruses are associated with multiple benign mucocutaneous diseases. Research regarding
the pathogenic mechanisms of oncoviruses and virus-specific treatment and prevention
is rapidly evolving. Preventative vaccines for human papillomavirus and hepatitis
B virus are already available. This review discusses the mucocutaneous manifestations,
pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of oncovirus-related diseases.
The first article in this continuing medical education series focuses on diseases
associated with human papillomavirus and Merkel cell polyomavirus, while the second
article in the series focuses on diseases associated with hepatitis B and C viruses,
human T-cell lymphotropic virus-1, human herpesvirus-8, and Epstein-Barr virus.
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