Laryngeal Papillomatosis in an Adult Patient Undergoing General Anaesthesia: An Incidental Finding

Abstract

Laryngeal papillomatosis is a rare respiratory tract disease of viral aetiology. It presents with airway obstruction, cough and voice affectation. Immunodeficiency and sexual behavior are predisposing risk factors. The index patient is a 32-year-old female in whom laryngeal papillomatosis was incidentally discovered during general anaesthesia and laryngoscopy, who developed recurrent disease following excision biopsy. For diagnosis, high index of suspicion is important, the slightest symptoms should be evaluated and neck x-rays and indirect laryngoscopy are valuable. Treatment is difficult and costly, entailing repeat surgeries and adjuvant drug therapies.