Published online Dec 28, 2021. doi: 10.13105/wjma.v9.i6.505
Peer-review started: May 1, 2021
First decision: July 4, 2021
Revised: August 26, 2021
Accepted: December 23, 2021
Article in press: December 23, 2021
Published online: December 28, 2021
Infection is currently one of the main contributors to carcinogenesis. In fact, the International Agency for Research on Cancer has categorized eleven biological agents as group I carcinogens. It is estimated that around 16% of the 12.7 million new cancers diagnosed in 2008 were attributable to infectious agents. Although underdeveloped regions carry the highest incidence rates, about 7.4% of infection-related cancer cases occur in developed areas. Physicians are increasingly aware of the potential carcinogenic role of common virus like the Human Papilloma virus in cervical cancer, or the hepatitis B and C viruses in hepatocarcinoma. However, the carcinogenic role of several other infectious agents is less recognized. Given that gastrointestinal malignancies carry an overall poor prognosis, a better understanding of the carcinogenic mechanisms triggered by infectious agents is key to decrease the rate of cancer related deaths. Preventive measures directed to such infections would ideally impact survival. In this paper we review the main pathogenic mechanisms related to the development of gastrointestinal malignancies induced by infectious microorganisms and other pathogens which are currently under investigation.
Core Tip: Except for pathogens with well-known carcinogenic potential, such as Human Papilloma virus or Hepatitis C virus, physicians are usually unaware of the relationship among other infectious agents and tumors. The identification and subsequent eradication of these pathogens might help to prevent the development of a large number of tumors. Gastrointestinal malignancies are usually related to a very poor outcome. Therefore, detection of carcinogenic pathogens in this population might help to increase overall survival. Screening strategies and further research is required to face with these preventable diseases.