[The occurrence of atopic hypersensitivity in children with adenoid hypertrophy]

Allergic sensitization of the airways occurs in the mucosa. The lymphatic structure closest to the nasal mucosa is the adenoid. Adenoid hypertrophy (AH) may cause significant morbidity in children but its relationship to atopy has not been intensively studied. To examine the influence of atopy on the adenoid hypertrophy we studied 134 children ages 4 to 8 years, with an average age of 5.4 who had AH. In the analysed group 102 children suffered from difficulty in nose breathing, 61 of children from recurrent upper respiratory tract infections, 51 from recurrent otitis and 40 from hearing disorders. On the basis of allergic and immunological examinations, in 30.6% atopy was confirmed--41 out of 134 children showed positive skin test for allergy, mostly to different kinds of pollen or house dust. From these positive patients the respective allergens could be determined by RAST tests in serum of 87%. Increased total IgE level in serum was confirmed only in 17.5%. 8.5% of children showed peripheral blood eosinophilia. Some children were qualified for adenotomy and removed adenoid was examined histopathologically. Pharmacological treatment was also recommended.

The study shows that allergy and sensitivity to different kinds of allergens is an important risk factor for a greater degree of AH in children. Therefore, early prevention of exposure to them may help reduce occurrence of AH.