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Adenoid Hypertrophy

Enlargement of the adenoids (pharyngeal tonsil)

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department. Book Appointment →

What is Adenoid Hypertrophy?

Adenoid hypertrophy is the enlargement of the pharyngeal tonsil (adenoid), a lymphoid tissue located in the nasopharynx behind the nasal passages. The adenoid is part of Waldeyer's ring and contributes to immunity in early childhood, peaking in size around ages 3-7 before naturally regressing during adolescence.

When persistently enlarged, the adenoid obstructs nasal airflow and the eustachian tube orifices, leading to mouth breathing, snoring, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), recurrent otitis media with effusion (OME), and craniofacial growth abnormalities (adenoid facies).

Diagnosis is based on history (snoring, nasal obstruction, mouth breathing, recurrent ear infections), physical examination, lateral neck radiograph, and flexible nasal endoscopy. Treatment ranges from intranasal corticosteroids and montelukast for mild cases to adenoidectomy for moderate-severe symptoms or complications such as OSA and persistent OME.

Symptoms

Chronic nasal obstruction
Mouth breathing
Snoring and sleep apnea
Hyponasal speech
Recurrent middle ear infections
Hearing loss from chronic OME
Adenoid facies (long face, open mouth, dental malocclusion)

Risk Factors

Age 3-7 years (peak adenoid size)
Chronic upper respiratory infections
Allergic rhinitis
Passive smoking exposure
Gastroesophageal reflux
Daycare attendance
Family history of atopy or adenotonsillar disease

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent mouth breathing or loud snoring
  • Witnessed apnea episodes during sleep
  • Recurrent ear infections or hearing loss
  • Chronic nasal obstruction unresponsive to medical therapy
  • Speech or feeding difficulties in young children
  • Failure to thrive associated with sleep-disordered breathing
  • Recurrent or persistent rhinosinusitis

Treatment Methods

01
Intranasal corticosteroid sprays
02
Montelukast trial (especially with allergic rhinitis)
03
Saline nasal irrigation and allergen avoidance
04
Polysomnography for suspected obstructive sleep apnea
05
Adenoidectomy (curettage or coblation/microdebrider) for severe cases
06
Concurrent tympanostomy tube placement for chronic OME
07
Postoperative follow-up with audiometry and growth assessment

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.