Research progress of Epstein-Barr virus and nasopharyngeal carcinoma

<p indent="0mm">Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a malignant tumor originating from the epithelium of the nasopharyngeal mucosa, with a predilection for the nasopharyngeal recess, lateral wall, and posterior wall of nasopharynx. NPC is endemic to Southeast Asia and southern China, where its incidence rate has remained relatively stable. The risk factors of NPC include Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, genetic factors, and environmental factors, with EBV playing a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of undifferentiated NPC. The early symptoms of NPC are often subtle, making early detection challenging. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT), and nasal endoscopic biopsy remain the most commonly employed modalities for diagnosis and staging. Radiation therapy is the cornerstone of NPC treatment, often complemented by chemotherapy and immunotherapy to enhance therapeutic outcomes. EBV-related biomarkers have found broad applications in screening, prognostic assessment, treatment evaluation, and long-term follow-up of NPC patients. This article reviews the close association between EBV and NPC in terms of pathogenesis and clinical diagnosis and treatment. It also discusses the opportunities and challenges for future research on NPC and its connection with EBV.