Tracheal papillomatosis causing upper airway obstruction

Tracheal papillomatosis is rare. When the disease starts during childhood, it usually appears to be self-limiting if properly managed. In adults, however, the disease sometimes runs a more protracted course with a higher risk of developing cancer. The tumors are derived from the tracheal surface epithelium and tracheal mucous glands and usually grow exophytically. Treatment has traditionally been with repeated endoscopic resection. However, in view of its viral origin, attempts have been made to control the disease with interferon. A 67 years-old man was presented with exertional dyspnea. He was treated for bronchial asthma at another hospital. There was no improvement in his symptom. He was referred to this hospital, and a bronchoscopic biopsy showed tracheal papillomatosis. He was undergone bronchoscopic laser therapy with symptomatic improvement.