Juvenile laryngeal papillomatosis – Etiology, Pathology, Clinical Features, Management

Bilateral Laryngeal Papilloma

• Laryngeal papillomas constitute 80% of the neoplastic lesions of the larynx
• Juvenile laryngeal papillomas are a type of squamous papillomas seen in infants and children

Etiology:

• It is believed to be viral in origin (Human papilloma virus)
• Association with maternal condylomata acuminata is seen

Pathology:

• Proliferation of squamous epithelium

Sites involved:

• Epiglottis
• True vocal cords
• False vocal cords
• Other areas of larynx
• Trachea

Clinical Features:

• Hoarseness of voice
• Stridor

Treatment:

• Endoscopic removal by cup forceps
• Cryotherapy
• Microelectrocautery
• CO2 laser – preferred method – less bleeding, precise removal possible

Recurrence:

• There is high chance of recurrence
• Interferon therapy is useful in preventing recurrence

Image credits: Otolaryngology Houston