Risk Factors for Adenoidal Regrowth Among Patients in a Pediatric Allergy Practice

Abstract

Hypertrophied adenoid glands are a common finding in pediatric patients with obstructive nasal symptoms. Recurrence of the symptoms following adenoidectomy is reported. One possible etiology for recurrent symptoms is regrowth of the adenoid tissue; however, prevalence of and risk factors for regrowth are not well delineated. The study was undertaken to determine the frequency of regrowth of adenoid tissue in a population of post-adenoidectomy patients presenting to a pediatric allergy office with obstructive nasal complaints, as well as to identify potential contributing risk factors in this population. Patients presenting with obstructive nasal symptoms, status post-adenoidectomy were retrospectively identified. Charts were reviewed for evidence of adenoid regrowth on imaging studies. A retrospective analysis was then performed comparing the presence and absence of adenoid regrowth with aeroallergen sensitivity, sinusitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), tobacco exposure, asthma, and immunodeficiency disorders. One hundred and six patients’ histories were reviewed for this study. Forty-five percent of patients had evidence of adenoid regrowth on imaging studies, while 55% did not. The presence of GERD was more common in the group with adenoid regrowth (P = 0.012). Otherwise, the groups did not differ significantly. Among patients presenting with obstructive nasal symptoms following adenoidectomy, GERD was significantly more prevalent in those with regrowth of adenoid tissue.