Viruses and cancers: possible role of hepatitis C virus

Abstract

Abstract. Oncogenesis is a multifactorial process in which environmental, genetic and infectious factors are variably involved. A possible role of specific viruses has been suggested in at least 15% of human cancers. Hepatitis C virus (HCV), which is both hepato-and lymphotropic, is responsible for various liver disorders, i.e. chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, as well as for a constellation of extrahepatic immune-mediated manifestations, among which is mixed cryoglobulinaemia. This is a systemic disorder secondary to a chronic, benign B-lymphocyte proliferation, which in some subjects may evolve to a malignant non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). Interestingly, recent studies reported the appearance of malignant B-cell neoplasias in patients with type C chronic hepatitis; moreover, in a significant number (from 22% to 50%) of 'idiopathic' NHLs, the presence of HCV infection has been demonstrated. The presence of a geographical etherogeneity in the prevalence of HCV-positive NHL suggests that other co-factors, i.e. genetic and environmental, could be involved in the lymphomagenesis. HCV may exert its oncogenic potential in two different directions, leading to liver cancer or B-cell lymphoma.

Does the hepatitis C virus replicate in cells of the hematopoietic lineage?

“…Defects in the control of immune system homeostasis by apoptosis are important for the pathogenesis of both autoimmune and lymphoproliferative disorders. 48,49 Indeed, malignancies of the hematopoietic lineage have been associated with HCV infection, especially non-Hodgkin' s lymphoma [50][51][52] ; one study suggests that other extrahepatic malignancies may be more frequent among HCV-infected patients than in the general population. 53 HCV may directly transform infected cells, including cells of lymphoid origin.…”

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and other nonhepatic malignancies in Swedish patients with hepatitis C virus infection

“…[14][15][16] HCV has been suggested to be both hepatotropic and lymphotropic. 17,18 The incidence of malignant NHL has increased in many countries in recent years. 19 In Sweden the average annual increase between 1981 and 2000 was 1.2% for men and 1.5% for women.…”

Status of hepatitis C virus infection in lung cancer patients

“…Some specific viruses has been reported at 15% role of human cancer cases (13). HCV has been shown to be associated in the etiopathogenesis Basic Clin Sci 2010; 1: 39-44…”

“…It only caused death of more than one million people in 2001 (10,12). Some specific viruses has been reported as having a role in 15% of human cancer cases (13). Viruses associated with human cancer have a role in oncogenesis.…”