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Laryngeal Papilloma

Recurrent HPV-induced wart-like lesions of the larynx

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department. Book Appointment →

What is Laryngeal Papilloma?

Laryngeal papilloma (recurrent respiratory papillomatosis, RRP) is a benign neoplastic disorder caused by human papillomavirus types 6 and 11. It is the most common benign neoplasm of the larynx in children, with a juvenile-onset and adult-onset form. Vertical transmission from mother during vaginal delivery accounts for the pediatric cases, while sexual transmission underlies adult disease.

Lesions appear as friable cauliflower-like exophytic papillomas most often on the true vocal cords. The disease is characterized by frequent recurrence requiring multiple surgical excisions across decades. Malignant transformation occurs rarely (3 to 5 percent), particularly with HPV-11, smoking and radiotherapy exposure.

Symptoms

Progressive hoarseness in children or adults
Weak or breathy voice
Stridor and breathing difficulty
Chronic cough
Choking episodes
Recurrent croup-like attacks in children
Voice fatigue and aphonia
Dyspnea on exertion

Risk Factors

Maternal genital HPV infection (juvenile)
First-born vaginally delivered children
Mothers under 20 at first delivery
Multiple sexual partners (adult form)
Smoking
Immunocompromised state
Lack of HPV vaccination
Radiotherapy to the head and neck

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent hoarseness lasting more than 2 weeks in a child
  • Adult hoarseness lasting more than 4 weeks
  • Stridor or breathing difficulty
  • Voice fatigue with talking
  • Recurrent croup episodes
  • Choking episodes
  • Aphonia or dramatic voice change

Treatment Methods

01
Suspension microlaryngoscopy with cold steel or microdebrider excision
02
CO2 or KTP pulsed dye laser ablation for diffuse disease
03
In-office KTP laser treatment for select adult cases
04
Intralesional cidofovir for aggressive recurrent disease
05
Bevacizumab (anti-VEGF) intralesional or systemic adjuvant therapy
06
Adjuvant Gardasil 9 HPV vaccination after surgery
07
Aggressive proton-pump inhibitor therapy for reflux
08
Tracheostomy as last resort to maintain airway
09
Speech therapy and voice rest after surgery

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.