Long-term follow-up of tonsillectomy efficacy in children with PFAPA syndrome

Ozturk Aktas1, Hande Gurbuz Aytuluk2, Sebla Kumas Caliskan3

  • 1Kocaeli State Hospital, Department of Otolaryngology, Kocaeli, Turkey.

Insights

Tonsillectomy effectively treats periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis, and adenitis syndrome (PFAPA). Most patients experienced complete symptom resolution after surgery, indicating its therapeutic value.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Immunology

Background:

  • The efficacy of tonsillectomy for PFAPA remains debated.
  • Previous studies suggest high success rates, but larger patient cohorts are needed.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the long-term outcomes of tonsillectomy in patients diagnosed with PFAPA syndrome.

Main Methods:

  • A multi-center case series involving 23 patients with PFAPA.
  • Patients underwent tonsillectomy, with or without adenoidectomy, between 2009 and 2014.

Main Results:

  • Complete resolution of PFAPA symptoms was observed in 91% of patients (21/23) immediately post-surgery.
  • One patient experienced a single recurrence 24 hours post-surgery, with no further episodes.
  • Another patient achieved complete remission after 3 months following intermittent attacks.

Conclusions:

  • Tonsillectomy presents a viable and effective treatment option for PFAPA syndrome.
  • The procedure demonstrates significant long-term benefits for patients suffering from PFAPA.
Abstract