systematic review on infectious agents inducing cancer in animals: What do we know?

Neoplastic diseases are the leading cause of death in animals and humans worldwide. Furthermore, neoplasms in patients with infectious diseases account for 15% of non-hereditary neoplasms. Chronic infections are considered a major cause of neoplasm development, with numerous mechanisms mediated by these factors reportedly involved in oncogenesis. This review aimed to identify publications involving diagnosis and prognosis to improve understanding of concomitant interrelated scenarios involving interactions between microorganisms and neoplasms. A systematic literature review was conducted to identify publications regarding effects of infectious agents on neoplasms, including diagnostic challenges, and impacts on patient prognosis. Coexistence of neoplasms and infectious diseases has been frequently reported. Microorganisms can promote or suppress neoplastic development, with studies conducted to elucidate interactions between microorganisms and oncogenesis. Understanding the role of pathogens in oncogenesis could help prevent or control pathogen transmission and, consequently, the incidence of certain cancers, with much relevance for public health.