Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis and Human Papillomavirus

Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is a disease that is characterized by recurrent growth of exophytic wart-like lesions throughout the respiratory tract. The disease is mainly associated with low-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types 6 and 11. The distribution of the age of onset of RRP shows three peaks: age 4 years old, age 34, and age 60–64. Patients with RRP generally experience voice problems and, without treatment, eventually develop a compromised airway. Owing to the recurrent character of RRP, most patients require repeated surgical interventions to remove the lesions to keep the voice functional and the airway patent. There is currently no cure for RRP. This chapter reviews the etiology, diagnosis, therapeutic options, and prevention of RRP.