Understanding Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis
Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis (RRP) is a condition where small, wart-like growths called papillomas form inside the throat, voice box, or airways. These growths are caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and can keep coming back even after treatment. A person with RRP may visit a doctor because of a hoarse or changed voice, difficulty breathing, or a persistent cough that does not go away.
Common Symptoms / Concerns for Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis
When to Seek Professional Care
Book an evaluation with a healthcare provider immediately if you experience or present with:
- Noisy or laboured breathing that is getting worse quickly
- Child or adult turning blue around the lips or fingernails due to lack of air
- Sudden inability to speak or make any sound
- Severe difficulty breathing that does not improve with rest
- Choking episode that does not resolve on its own
- Hoarseness in a child that has lasted more than two weeks
- Rapid worsening of symptoms after a previous treatment
- High fever alongside breathing difficulties
What to Expect During Your Medical Consultation
When you visit the doctor for RRP, they will ask about your symptoms — how long your voice has been hoarse, whether breathing has become difficult, and if you have had similar problems before. The doctor will likely look inside your throat using a small camera or light to check for any growths on your voice box or airway. Depending on what they find, they may refer you to a specialist (an ENT doctor) and arrange for a minor procedure to remove the growths and confirm the diagnosis.
Medical Divisions Vetted for Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis
Our platform supports multiple clinical specialties capable of providing consultations for this visit type:
Ear, Nose & Throat Doctor
Clinicians available for recurrent respiratory papillomatosis consultations.
Related Conditions
Conditions commonly associated with Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis consultations:
Headache
Also known as: cephalgia, dolor capitis, ha, head ache, head pain
Cough
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis?
RRP is caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the same virus that causes genital warts. In children, the virus is usually passed from mother to baby during childbirth. In adults, it can be spread through close contact with an infected person. Not everyone who is exposed to HPV will develop RRP.
Can RRP be cured with home remedies or local herbs?
No home remedy or herbal treatment has been proven to remove or cure the papilloma growths in the throat. While some remedies may soothe a sore throat, they will not stop the growths from coming back. It is important to see a doctor or ENT specialist so the growths can be properly removed and monitored.
How is RRP treated?
The main treatment for RRP is surgery to remove the growths from the throat or voice box. This is usually done using a laser or small instruments through a camera procedure. Because the growths often come back, surgery may need to be repeated several times. In some cases, doctors may also use medicines to help slow the return of the growths.
Is RRP dangerous for children?
RRP can be more serious in young children because their airways are smaller, making it harder to breathe when growths develop. If a child's voice becomes hoarse or their breathing sounds noisy, it is important to see a doctor quickly. With proper treatment, most children can be managed well, though they may need repeated procedures as they grow.
Can the HPV vaccine prevent RRP?
Yes, the HPV vaccine can help protect against the types of HPV that cause RRP. Vaccinating children and young adults before they are exposed to the virus is the best way to reduce the risk. In Ghana and West Africa, the HPV vaccine is increasingly available — speak to your doctor or local health centre about getting vaccinated.
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Our guides are reviewed by internal medical advisory boards to uphold patient guidelines and reference certified therapies.
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