Laryngeal Papillomas Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
Laryngeal papilloma is a benign tumor located in the airways of the larynx (the upper part of the throat that contains the vocal cords). These tumors often cause airway obstruction that can result in death.
Laryngeal papilloma is common in children under seven years of age, but it is rare in adults as well.
Symptoms
The initial symptom of laryngeal papilloma is a hoarse voice. In severe cases, the sound of a child’s cry can sound abnormal so that the child cannot speak at all.
Respiratory system disorders can also arise in the form of coughing, shortness of breath, and snoring when exhaling.
Reason
Until now, the cause of laryngeal papilloma is not known with certainty. However, experts suspect that the human papillomavirus (HPV) plays a role in the occurrence of these tumors.
Other factors are thought to play a role, including hormones, low social and economic conditions, and poor hygiene. Apart from that, chronic respiratory infections and abnormalities in the immune system are also thought to trigger laryngeal papillomas.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of laryngeal papillomas is made by medical interviews, radiological examinations (such as a CT scan of the airway), and analysis of tissue samples taken.
Treatment
Laryngeal papilloma can be treated in various ways, such as:
- Drug therapy
- Surgical therapy
- Immune therapy
Antiviral therapy is given if it is proven that laryngeal papillomas are caused by the HPV virus. The type of antivirus given is interferon. Interferon itself has side effects, such as fever, fatigue, and nausea. Other antivirals that can be used are acyclovir and cidofovir.