Regression of aggressive laryngeal papillomatosis with 13-cis-retinoic acid (accutane).

Laryngeal papillomatosis often involves a relentless growth of papillomas on the vocal cords, requiring repeated excisions to maintain an adequate airway. Because of its antiproliferative effects on epithelial tissues, 13-cis-retinoic acid (0.5-2.0 mg/kd/day p.o.) was used in five patients whose disease was poorly controlled by laser beam surgery. Control of disease for 24+, 5+, and 12 months has been achieved in three of the patients, with two complete and one partial responses. Side effects of treatment were mild and rapidly reversible, following a 25-50% reduction in drug dose.