Esophageal squamous cell papilloma in a child with cystic fibrosis: A rare incidental endoscopic finding

Abstract

Esophageal squamous cell papilloma is an uncommon epithelial lesion of the esophagus. Epidemiological data regarding esophageal squamous cell papilloma in children is scarce and consists of few case reports. Although the etiology of esophageal squamous cell papilloma remains unclear, chemical/mechanical irritation induced hyper-regenerative response of esophageal mucosa and human papillomavirus infection have been suggested as most probable causes. A case of a 14-year-old girl with cystic fibrosis and chronic dyspepsia had a 0.5 x 0.5 cm sessile, multilobulated, whitish and verrucous polypoid mass close to the lower esophageal sphincter removed. Histologically, a benign squamous papilloma was confirmed. Her dyspeptic symptoms suggestive for gastroesophageal reflux resolved after papilloma removal and anti-acid treatment. Esophageal squamous cell papilloma is an incidental finding at upper endoscopy. Gastroesophageal reflux disease may be responsible for distally localized papillomas. Due to its rarity in childhood, there are not any well-established management and surveillance guidelines. Esophageal squamous cell papilloma should be removed, when possible, because of the ambiguity about its malignant potential.