Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis

Abstract

Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is benign neoplasm caused by human papillomavirus. Although RRP arises in anywhere along the airway, the most common site is larynx. RRP has bimodal onset during either childhood or adulthood. Childhood-onset RRP is presented with more aggressive disease, which is associated with higher recurrence rate and spread to distal airway. At present, there is no single modality to eradicate RRP. The current standard treatment is repeated surgical removal of papilloma and preservation of normal structures as far as possible. When repeated surgery is needed more than 4 times per year or disease involves the distal airway, nonsurgical adjuvant therapies should be considered. Several adjuvant therapies have been tried and some showed effectiveness for advanced RRP. Because of its severe impact on children’s heath, latest knowledge of RRP is essential to otolaryngologists. In this review, clinical features and surgical or nonsurgical treatment options will be discussed. Korean J Otorhinolaryngol-Head Neck Surg 2015;58(12):822-30 Key WordsZZAdjuvant therapy ㆍHuman papillomavirus ㆍLaser ㆍRecurrent respiratory papillomatosis.