[Nasopharyngeal cancer and pregnancy. Review of the literature. Report of a case]

Abstract

We present a case of a rare condition of nasopharyngeal cancer and pregnancy occurring together. We review the unusual epidemiological, clinical and prognostic features of this type of cancer. Because of the immunological changes that occur in pregnancy and because of the potential oncogenic role of Epstein Barr virus we consider that pregnancy worsens the prognosis for nasopharyngeal cancer. After having pointed out the risks of radiotherapy and particularly of chemotherapy in pregnancy, we discuss the need to carry out a therapeutic abortion because of the effect that pregnancy will have if it is allowed to go on to term.