Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease in children

The hallmark of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is an increased expo sure of esophageal and laryngeal mucosa to gastric juice. This exposure can cause complications such as chronic laryngitis or chronic respiratory dise ases. We report our experience in managing three pediatric patients with se vere recurrent juvenile laryngeal papillomatosis (SLP) associated with GERD . All patients showed a high rate of recurrence requiring multiple laser su rgeries. Systemic alpha interferon therapy over a period of more than 1 yea r and photodynamic therapy with dihematoporphyrin produced no improvement. However, after therapy for GERD, the rate of recurrence of JLP decreased si gnificantly. Although the course of respiratory papillomatosis is known to fluctuate, our findings suggest that gas troesophageal reflux may have a ro le in aggravating papillomatosis.