Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is a rare disease that causes noncancerous tumors, called papillomas, to grow in the airway. These growths most often develop on the vocal cords (larynx), but they can also appear in other parts of the respiratory tract including the windpipe and the lungs.
RRP is caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). The tumors are not cancerous, but they frequently grow back after surgery and can affect speaking, breathing, and quality of life.
For many patients, RRP becomes a lifelong condition that requires ongoing monitoring and repeated procedures to keep the airway open and preserve the voice.
At UC Health, voice and swallowing disorder specialists offer advanced therapies—including a newly approved drug treatment that may help reduce tumor growth and lower the need for repeated surgeries.
Signs and Symptoms of Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis (RRP)
Symptoms of RRP can range from mild voice changes to serious breathing problems. Because symptoms often develop slowly, the condition may be mistaken for asthma, chronic hoarseness or recurring respiratory infections.
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Hoarseness or chronic voice changes
- Weak, strained or breathy voice
- Difficulty speaking for long periods
- Frequent throat clearing or feeling of something in the throat
- Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
- Noisy breathing (stridor)
In severe cases, papillomas can grow large enough to narrow the airway and make breathing difficult. Early diagnosis and specialized care are important to help prevent complications and preserve voice function.
Treatment for Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis (RRP)
Traditionally, patients with RRP often required repeated surgeries—sometimes dozens or even hundreds over a lifetime—to remove recurring tumors and maintain a safe airway.
UC Health offers advanced treatment options for patients with RRP, including a first-of-its-kind immunotherapy treatment designed to help the immune system fight the virus that causes papillomas to grow.
Used alongside surgical treatment, this therapy may help slow tumor regrowth, reduce the frequency of procedures and improve quality of life for eligible patients living with this chronic condition. Treatment is typically delivered over a series of scheduled injections, with patients continuing to receive close airway monitoring and supportive care throughout treatment.
RRP Treatment plans are tailored to each patient and may include:
- Microsurgical removal of papillomas in the operating room under general anesthesia
- Office-based laser treatment under local anesthesia
- Targeted drug therapy for eligible patients
- Advanced airway management
- Voice therapy
- Long-term monitoring and follow-up care
Our multidisciplinary team works closely with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan focused on protecting the airway, preserving the voice and reducing disease burden over time.
When to See an Otolaryngology Specialist
You should seek evaluation if you have ongoing hoarseness, breathing changes or recurring airway symptoms that do not improve. Early diagnosis can help prevent airway complications and reduce long-term damage to the vocal cords.
The otolaryngology specialists at UC Health provide expert evaluation and advanced treatment options for both adults and transitioning pediatric patients with RRP.
Why Choose UC Health for Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis (RRP) Treatment?
Patients with RRP benefit from specialized, team-based care at UC Health, including:
- Expertise in complex airway and voice disorders
- Advanced surgical and office-based treatment options
- Access to innovative therapies for eligible patients
- Partnerships with regional pediatric hospitals to support continuity of care as patients transition into adulthood
If you or a loved one has RRP or ongoing voice and breathing problems, call 513-475-8400 to schedule an appointment with an otolaryngologist and learn more about advanced treatment options available in the Cincinnati region.