[Hyperplastic adenoids and growth of the facial skeleton]

A case of a 16-year old female patient with large hyperplastic adenoids is presented. The only subjective symptoms were blocked nasal ventilation and subsequent permanent mouth breathing for 10 years. Concomitant sinusitis and middle ear affection were absent. In addition a gothic palate with malocclusion due to prognathism was found. The possible relationship between hyperplastic adenoids, chronic mouth breathing and craniofacial growth is discussed.