The Prognostic Role of Fusobacterium nucleatum in Head and Neck Cancers: A Meta-Analysis of Key Oncological Outcomes

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Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has significant global incidence, with 890,000 new cases and 450,000 deaths annually.
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Fusobacterium nucleatum is linked to chronic periodontal inflammation and may influence HNSCC development and prognosis.
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High levels of F. nucleatum in HNSCC tumors correlate with increased risk of cervical lymph node metastasis.
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Contrary to findings in colorectal cancer, some studies suggest that F. nucleatum presence in HNSCC may be associated with improved survival.
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This meta-analysis aims to clarify the prognostic role of F. nucleatum in HNSCC, focusing on survival and disease recurrence outcomes.

Bmc Cancer

by Asuman Feda Bayrak, Mehmet Emin Arayici, Ozden Savas, Erdogan Ozgur, Aydan Ozkutuk, Enis Alpin Guneri
November 29, 2025

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