Does Removing Tonsils, Adenoids, or Both in Childhood Increase Illness Later?

The absolute risk for later upper respiratory infections was 19% greater after tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy in a large population of Danish children.

Removal of tonsils, adenoids, or both is frequently considered in hopes of reducing chronic childhood infections or breathing problems. Using a Danish population registry of 1.2 million children born between 1979 and 1999, researchers assessed long-term disease risks after tonsillectomy, adenotonsillectomy, or adenoidectomy prior to age 9 years. The population was followed up to 30 years of age.

Among nearly 12,000 children who underwent tonsillectomy, the absolute risk for upper respiratory infection (URI) increased by 19%. Compared with a large control group, the relative risk for subsequent URI was 2.7. Among nearly 18,000 children undergoing adenoidectomy, the absolute risk for URI increased by 11% (relative risk, 2). The absolute risk f…

Reviewing Author

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

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Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

Does Removing Tonsils, Adenoids, or Both in Childhood Increase Illness Later?

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Reviewing Author