Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis is a frustrating and challenging disease for surgeons, patients, and patients' families. Although the voice and airway manifestations are managed surgically, a "cure" for this disease remains elusive. In this edition of the "Seminar Series," we endeavor to review the current literature regarding the epidemiology, etiology, clinical manifestations, and surgical and medical treatments of this disorder. The key to future management of recurrent respiratory papillomatosis may lie in its prevention, if current efforts to develop an effective vaccine come to fruition.