Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis is a rare, noncancerous (benign) tumor of the respiratory system, commonly affecting the voice box (larynx).
Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis is caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), a virus that causes skin warts and genital warts. Infants may get infected by this virus as they pass through the birth canal if their mother has an HPV infection in her genital region.
HPV infection of the airway can cause multiple, wartlike growths around the voice box and/or in the windpipe (trachea). The growths often come back (recur) after treatment. Rarely, they become cancerous (malignant).
Although laryngeal papillomas can occur at any age, they most commonly affect children aged 1 to 4 years.
Symptoms of Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis
Papillomas are suspected when parents notice hoarseness, a weak cry, or other changes in the child’s voice. Older children may have trouble speaking.
Papillomas in the windpipe can interfere with breathing.
Diagnosis of Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis
Biopsy
Doctors detect laryngeal papillomas by using a laryngoscope to view the voice box. They then remove a piece of the papilloma for examination (biopsy) to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment of Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis
Surgical removal
Although some tumors may begin to disappear at puberty, doctors usually surgically remove them using various procedures. Many children require numerous procedures throughout childhood to remove the tumors as they reappear.
An antiviral medication (such as cidofovir) or a medication that is used to treat cancer (such as bevacizumab) may be given to children who have a severe case.An antiviral medication (such as cidofovir) or a medication that is used to treat cancer (such as bevacizumab) may be given to children who have a severe case.
Prevention of Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis
People who get an HPV vaccine are less likely to become infected and are thus less likely to develop some HPV-related illnesses or to pass on HPV to other people.
More Information
The following is an English-language resources that may be useful. Please note that The Manual is not responsible for the content of this resource.
