Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis: the role of cidofovir

Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is a rare condition that affects the respiratory system. It is caused by human papilloma virus (HPV) infection. Usually infection and papilloma growth is limited to 6-12 months duration; however, some patients have persistent disease, resulting in long-term symptoms and the need for recurrent intervention. Predominant symptoms include shortness of breath, reduced exercise tolerance and voice deterioration during flares. Current gold-standard management is through resection via microdebrider, CO₂ laser, cryotherapy, electrocoagulation, Nd: YAG laser or pulse-dye laser. However, despite these therapies, approximately 20% of patients require adjuvant therapy. We discuss the use of intralesional cidofovir in the management of tracheal papillomatosis. Cidofovir's mechanism of action involves incorporating into the virus DNA chain and therefore, inhibiting the viral DNA polymerization process and hence replication.