Is there any correlation between allergy and adenotonsillar tissue hypertrophy?

OBJECTIVES: Tonsil and adenoid are part of waldeyers ring; the basic function of which are antibody formation, which later react against a grat variety of antigens. The Adenotonsillectomy is the most common operation in small children but the exact reasons of adenotonsillar hypertrophy remains unknown, some researches have shown that allergy may be at risk factor for adenotonsillar hypertrophy.

METHODS: Thorough one year two separated groups of children at the ENT and allergy ward of childrens hospital was enrolled in the study. The study group consisted of 117 children between 1 and 14 years old (with average of 6) who had adenotonsillar hypertrophy. The control group consisted of 100 children in the similar age that had not adenotonsillar hypertrophy. Both groups were examined for the incidence of allergic disease, results of skin prick test, serum IgE levels and close contact to smoke.

RESULTS: In the study group 70.3% of children with adenotonsillar hypertrophy had positive skin prick test. But only 10% of children in control group had positive skin prick test. Increased serum total IgE level was confirmed in 48% of children with positive skin prick test in study group were in close contact with smoker parents.

CONCLUSION: Allergy and sensitivity to different kinds of allergens are important risk factors for adenotonsillar hypertrophy in children. Allergy control may have role in reducing the rate of adenotonsillectomy in children suffering allergic reactions with adenotonsillar hypertrophy.