Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis

Abstract

Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is a benign, often multi-focal neoplasm. A potentially fatal manifestation of human papilloma virus infection, the condition is characterised by multiple warty excrescences on the mucosal surface of the respiratory tract. RRP is rare--incidence is estimated at 3.5 per million person-years, with a prevalence of 4 in 100,000 children. Affected children usually require multiple interventions; the impact on patients, their families, and the healthcare system is considerable. Treatment of RRP accounts for an estimated dollar 109 million annual expenditure in the USA.

No Association of Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis Aggressiveness and Human Papillomavirus Type 6 and 11

“…5,6 Stridor and persistent or progressive hoarseness accompanied by shortness of breath are the main symptoms. 7 Other rare symptoms are chronic cough, recurrent pneumonia, and failure to thrive.…”

“…9 Final confirmation is done by tissue histopathology examination. 5 This disease can be both non aggressive which resulting a remission, or more aggressive that require repetitive surgery. 3 Aggressive type characterized by recurrent papilloma growth in more than one site.…”

Vaccines for Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection

“…Moreover, the tetravalent vaccine also offers protection in the short-term from genital warts and probably against recurrent respiratory papillomatosis, caused by strains 6 and 11 of HPV [10].…”

Modern imaging of the tracheo-bronchial tree

“…Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is the result of infection of the upper respiratory tract by human papilloma virus types 6 and 11 [59] . RRP has a bimodal age distribution, with most infections taking place at birth through an infected birth canal.…”