Adenoid Hypertrophy in Adults: A case Series

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Head and Neck Surgery
• Pediatric and Adult ENT Conditions

Background:

• Adenoid hypertrophy is a common childhood condition, with adenoids typically atrophying by age 16.
• Adult adenoid hypertrophy is considered rare but is increasingly observed.
• This study investigates the rising incidence and causes of adenoid hypertrophy in adult patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the prevalence and etiological factors of adenoid hypertrophy in adult patients.
• To determine the association of adenoid hypertrophy with other sinonasal conditions and systemic infections.
• To highlight the importance of evaluating adult adenoid hypertrophy for potentially serious underlying causes.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of adult patients presenting with nasal obstruction.
• Clinical evaluation, including history, physical examination, and diagnostic procedures.
• Data collection on patient demographics, symptoms, identified causes, and associated conditions.

Main Results:

• Adenoid hypertrophy accounts for 21% of adult nasal obstruction cases.
• The primary causes identified were chronic infection (53.3%) and allergic rhinitis (30%).
• Males (70%) aged 16-25 years were most commonly affected; risk factors include pollution and smoking. Rare associations with malignancy, lymphoma, and HIV were noted (3.3% each).

Conclusions:

• Adenoid hypertrophy is an emerging cause of nasal obstruction in adults.
• Chronic infection and allergy are the leading contributors.
• Serious underlying conditions must be ruled out in adult patients diagnosed with adenoid hypertrophy.