What causes Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis (RRP)?

Human papilloma virus, one of the most widespread infections of mankind, being a sexually transmitted disease, has been identified in more than 98 known types. Many of these types are of little concern, although they are often found along with the more aggressive types. One rare manifestation of such infection, recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP), is seen in a few thousand people in the United State.

Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis presents primarily as tiny or larger warts on the vocal chords. As might be imagined, when this occurs, the person becomes hoarse and has other difficulties in their throat. Rare extreme cases of Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis involve the migration of wart formations into other portions of the respiratory tract, even into the lungs. Even though not widespread, Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis is causes physical and emotional suffering for those who are afflicted.

Types 6 and 11(HPV-6 and HPV-11) are generally associated with the physical manifestations of Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis. Dr. Brian J. Wiatrak and his associates have written an extensive review on Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis, its effects in humans and the variables affecting the severity of infection. Dr. Wiatrak reports surveying about 73 patients with RRP, many of whom were followed for 10 years, in order to better describe RRP, its causes and its treatment.

The worst cases of Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis are suffered by children who develop noticeable symptoms before age 3 and who are infected with HPV-11. Such patients often need surgical intervention to keep the Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis from spreading and from obstructing the airway. Adjuvent treatments such as with indole-3-carbinol (I3C) were mentioned but not evaluated in this study.

Learn More How indole-3-carbinol can help Respiratory Recurrent Papillomatosis.

See more Facts on Respiratory Recurrent Papillomatosis.

Wiatrak BJ, Wiatrak DW, Broker TR, and Lewis L, 2004, The Laryngoscope, 114 (Nov. Suppl.), 1-23.