Does food intolerance play a role in recurrent respiratory papillomatosis?

Abstract Background: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the potential role of food intolerances in the management of recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP). Methods: This is a retrospective case review of 4 pediatric patients with RRP. All of the patients, cared for by the primary author between 2005 and 2010, were managed using microdebrider resection, intralesional injection of cidofovir, and required multiple surgeries. Skin prick test (SPT) and/or radioallergosorbent test (RAST) were obtained for 2 patients. Oral food challenge was utilized in all 4 patients. Results: Standard SPT and RAST did not identify any immunoglobulin E (IgE)‐based allergens. A detailed medical history followed by an oral food challenge was successful at identifying food intolerances in all 4 patients. When specific food elimination was implemented in these patients' treatments in addition to microdebrider resection and cidofovir injection, statistically significant long‐term remissions were achieved. Conclusion: Food intolerance and its impact on RRP and immune dysfunction deserve further investigation and may benefit some patients with RRP. © 2011 ARS‐AAOA, LLC.