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Cidofovir: to use or not to use?
Marlene A Soma1, David M Albert
1Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Great Ormond St Hospital for Children, London, UK.
Current Opinion in Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery
|January 17, 2008
Summary
Intralesional cidofovir shows promise for recurrent respiratory papillomatosis, with about 60% response rates. Further research is needed to confirm safety and long-term efficacy of this antiviral therapy.
Area of Science:
- Antiviral therapy
- Oncology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is a rare disease often requiring surgical intervention.
- Cidofovir, an antiviral agent, is increasingly used as an adjuvant therapy for RRP.
- Intralesional administration is preferred to minimize systemic side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent publications on the safety and efficacy of intralesional cidofovir for RRP.
- To evaluate the current evidence supporting cidofovir's role in RRP management.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of recent literature.
- Analysis of case series, case reports, and one case-control study.
- Assessment of reported safety and efficacy data.
Main Results:
- No randomized controlled trials were identified.
- Complete response rates are consistently reported around 60% in small study populations.
- Potential risks include nephrotoxicity and possible carcinogenicity (based on animal studies).
Conclusions:
- Intralesional cidofovir is likely to remain a valuable treatment option for moderate to severe RRP.
- Further studies are necessary to establish long-term outcomes and safety profiles.
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