ADENOIDS

Adenoids

Definition

Adenoids are masses of lymphoid tissue located in the nasopharynx, behind the nasal passages.

Types

1. Infantile adenoids: Present in infants and children, they are larger in size and tend to shrink with age.
2. Adult adenoids: Present in adults, they are smaller in size and may cause symptoms.

Aetiology

1. Genetics: Family history plays a role in the development of adenoids.
2. Hormonal influences: Hormonal changes during childhood and adolescence contribute to adenoid growth.
3. Environmental factors: Exposure to allergens, viruses, and bacteria may contribute to adenoid growth.

Clinical Features

1. Respiratory symptoms: Nasal congestion, cough, and difficulty breathing.
2. Ear symptoms: Ear infections, hearing loss, and ear fullness.
3. Throat symptoms: Throat pain, sore throat, and difficulty swallowing.
4. General symptoms: Fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss.

Investigations

1. Nasopharyngoscopy: Examination of the nasopharynx using a flexible or rigid endoscope.
2. Imaging studies: X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans to evaluate the adenoids and surrounding tissues.

Differential Diagnosis

1. Tonsillitis: Inflammation of the tonsils.
2. Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses.
3. Eustachian tube dysfunction: Dysfunction of the Eustachian tube.
4. Sleep apnea: Obstruction of the airway during sleep.

Management

1. Observation: Monitoring symptoms and waiting for resolution.
2. Medical treatment: Antibiotics, antihistamines, or decongestants to manage symptoms.
3. Surgical treatment: Adenoidectomy to remove the adenoids.

Adenoidectomy

1. Preoperative preparation: Preparation of the patient for surgery, including consent and anesthesia.
2. Surgical approach: The surgeon may use an endoscope or make an incision in the nasopharynx to access the adenoids.
3. Removal of adenoids: The adenoids are removed using a curette or electrocautery.
4. Postoperative care: Care of the patient after surgery, including pain management and monitoring for complications.

Homoeopathic Treatment

1. Arsenicum album: For adenoids with fever and sore throat.
2. Belladonna: For adenoids with inflammation and pain.
3. Pulsatilla: For adenoids with nasal congestion and sinus pressure.
4. Silica: For adenoids with chronic inflammation and thickening.

Blood Supply

The adenoids receive blood supply from the pharyngeal arteries and nasal branches of the sphenopalatine artery.

Nerve Supply

The adenoids receive nerve supply from the pharyngeal branches of the glossopharyngeal nerve and nasal branches of the maxillary nerve.

Clinical Anatomy

The adenoids are located in the nasopharynx, behind the nasal passages. They are surrounded by the nasopharyngeal mucosa and the Eustachian tube.