Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery
Recurrent Respiratory Papilloma
Overview
Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is a condition characterized by the development of small, wart-like growths (papillomas) in the respiratory tract. These lesions are benign (not cancerous), but can significantly disrupt the voice and, at times, block the airway. Juvenile recurrent respiratory papillomatosis describes RRP cases that occur in children.
7Common Symptoms
- Hoarseness
- Loss of voice
- Difficulty speaking
- Chronic cough
- Stridor (noisy breathing)
- Shortness of breath
- Abnormal cry (in infants)
Diagnosis and Treatment
When RRP is suspected, it is often diagnosed by viewing the voice box with a scope. The only way to absolutely confirm this condition is with a biopsy. For treatment, the goal is to keep the airway safe and improve the patient's voice, which is accomplished by repeated removal of the papillomas.
Related Doctors
We bring together physicians, speech-language pathologists, and other healthcare professionals to provide treatment to patients suffering from voice and throat disorders. Collectively, we are among the world’s most experienced – and most successful – laryngology, voice, and speech teams.
