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Adenoid hypertrophy refers to enlargement of the pharyngeal tonsil (adenoid tissue) located in the roof and posterior wall of the nasopharynx. It is a common condition in children, often leading to nasal obstruction, mouth breathing, and Eustachian tube dysfunction.

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Etiopathogenesis

• The adenoids are lymphoid tissue that forms part of Waldeyer’s ring.
• Normally grow until age 6–7, and regress by adolescence.
• Hypertrophy may be due to:
  • Recurrent upper respiratory infections
  • Allergic rhinitis
  • Chronic inflammation
  • Immune stimulation during early childhood

Epidemiology

• Most common in children aged 3–7 years
• Can occur in adults (rare) due to chronic infections or HIV
• More frequent in children with atopy or recurrent ENT infections

Clinical Features

Often associated with tonsillar hypertrophy → adenotonsillar hypertrophy

Complications

• Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS)
• Chronic otitis media
• Eustachian tube dysfunction