This scoping review maps the available literature on the relationship between oral microbiome dysbiosis and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), following JBI methodology. It addresses four research questions: (1) the relationship between oral microbiota dysbiosis and HNSCC; (2) which microbial species are associated with HNSCC development; (3) which host germline genetic variants modify cancer susceptibility in the presence of dysbiosis; and (4) which molecular mechanisms link oral dysbiosis to HNSCC carcinogenesis. Studies of any design, geographic location, and language published from January 2010 onward are eligible. Samples include saliva, dental plaque, and oral mucosa. Results will be presented in tabular and graphical format with a narrative summary, and evidence mapping will identify knowledge gaps for future research.
Pelayo et al. (2025) studied this question.