What is Adenotonsillar hypertrophy?

What is Adenotonsillar hypertrophy?

Adenotonsillar hypertrophy (ATH) is the term commonly used to describe the abnormal growth of the pharyngeal tonsil (adenoid vegetations) and palatine tonsils.

What does adenoidal hypertrophy mean?

Adenoid hypertrophy is an obstructive condition related to an increased size of the adenoids. The condition can occur with or without an acute or chronic infection of the adenoids.

Is adenoid hypertrophy serious?

Adenoids are a part of the immune system and help the human body fight against infection. Adenoids enlarge due to infection but normalize after the infection subsides. However, if they remain enlarged even after the infection has gone, it may create problems.

How is Adenotonsillar hypertrophy treated?

The treatment of acute airway obstruction from adenotonsillar hypertrophy is airway stabilization, with a nasopharyngeal airway or endotracheal intubation. Antibiotics and corticosteroids will treat an underlying infection and reduce the size of the lymphoid tissue.

What causes Adenotonsillar hypertrophy?

Hypertrophy means enlargement. Hypertrophy of the tonsils and the adenoids means this tissue is enlarged. Adenoid hypertrophy is common in children but rare in adults. The common causes of adenoid hypertrophy in adults are chronic infection and allergy.

Are big tonsils bad in adults?

Enlarged tonsils don’t always cause symptoms. However, if they’re very large, they can partially block your throat, affecting your breathing. Other possible signs and symptoms of enlarged tonsils include: difficulty breathing through the nose.

Do enlarged tonsils need to be removed?

Removal is considered when they are excessively enlarged or frequently infected. They do not need to be infected to get enlarged. In fact, children often have obstructive problems from enlarged tonsils and adenoids without ever having had sore throats or “strep throat.”