# NASOPHARYNX Enlarged adenoid

NASOPHARYNX Enlarged adenoid

The most common cause of  an enlarged adenoid (there is only one nasopharyngeal adenoid, despite the common use of  the term ‘adenoids’) is physiological hypertrophy in childhood. The size of  the adenoid alone is not an indication for removal. Of  more importance is the consequence of  hypertrophy (e.g. nasal obstruction). Adenoid hypertrophy ( Figure 52.16 is often associated with hypertrophy of  the other lymphoid tissues of  Waldeyer’s ring. Of  particular note, if excessive adenoidal hypertrophy causes blockage of  the nasopharynx in association with tonsil hypertrophy , the upper airway may become compromised during sleep causing, obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). 

Figure 52.16
Adenoid hypertrophy.

NASOPHARYNX Enlarged adenoid

The most common cause of  an enlarged adenoid (there is only one nasopharyngeal adenoid, despite the common use of  the term ‘adenoids’) is physiological hypertrophy in childhood. The size of  the adenoid alone is not an indication for removal. Of  more importance is the consequence of  hypertrophy (e.g. nasal obstruction). Adenoid hypertrophy ( Figure 52.16 is often associated with hypertrophy of  the other lymphoid tissues of  Waldeyer’s ring. Of  particular note, if excessive adenoidal hypertrophy causes blockage of  the nasopharynx in association with tonsil hypertrophy , the upper airway may become compromised during sleep causing, obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). 

Figure 52.16
Adenoid hypertrophy.