Papova viruses and recurrent laryngeal papillomatosis.

The pathogenesis of larynx papillomas has been a challenge of medical science for a long time. Both clinical observations and electronmicroscopical examinations have made it possible to establish the viral origin. Final evidence, however, has been achieved only by complicated immunohistochemical investigations. The Papova viruses--types 6 and/or 11--can be detected with in situ hybridization polymerase chain reaction amplification. HPV can be positivity demonstrated not only from visible papillomas but--in significant percentage--in neighboring healthy-looking mucous membranes. It may reveal the inadequacies of removal of lesions and the need for adjuvant therapy. To make treatment more effective we have developed a therapeutic regimen that combines CO2 laser microsurgery with immunostimulants.