Role of parasites in cancer.

BACKGROUND: In areas of parasitic endemicity, the occurrence of cancer that is not frequent may be linked with parasitic infection. Epidemiological correlates between some parasitic infections and cancer is strong, suggesting a strong aetiological association. The common parasites associated with human cancers are schistosomiasis, malaria, liver flukes (Clonorchis sinenses, Opistorchis viverrini). OBJECTIVE: To review the pathology, literature and methods of diagnosis. METHOD: Literature review from peer reviewed Journals cited in PubMed and local journals. CONCLUSION: Parasites may serve as promoters of cancer in endemic areas of infection.