Laryngeal papillomatosis overview
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Differentiating Laryngeal papillomatosis from other Diseases |
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Diagnosis |
Treatment |
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Laryngeal papillomatosis, also known as recurrent respiratory papillomatosis, is a rare medical condition (2 per 100,000 adults and 4.5 per 100,000 children), caused by an HPV infection of the throat. It causes assorted tumors, papillomas, to develop in the air passages leading from the nose and mouth into the lungs (respiratory tract) over a period of time. The tumors may vary in size and grow very quickly. They often grow back even when removed. Without treatment it is potentially fatal as uncontrolled growths could obstruct the airway. Laryngeal papillomatosis is caused by HPV types 6 and 11, in which benign tumors form on the larynx or other areas of the respiratory tract. These tumors can recur frequently, may require repetitive surgery, and may interfere with breathing. The disease can be treated with surgery and antivirals.
Differentiating Laryngeal papillomatosis from other Diseases
This disease is most often misdiagnosed as asthma, croup, or chronic bronchitis.
Diagnosis
Other Diagnostic Studies
The most accurate way to diagnose laryngeal papillomatosis is for a biopsy to be conducted and for the lesion to be tested for HPV. This procedure takes place in an operating room with the patient under general anesthesia. This is sometimes the best option for small children.
Medical Therapy
Many antiviral drugs like Cidofovir have been used to treat laryngeal papillomatosis, but none completely stops the tumors from growing. Most antivirals are injected to control the frequency of tumor growth. The efficacy of the same is debated and subject to research. Some side effects of antivirals include dizziness, headaches, and body aches.