Tonsillar lymphoma as a cause of obstructive sleep apnea

Abstract

Infrequently in adults, isolated lesions of the upper airway, larynx, and trachea can produce obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). We describe a case of OSA found to be caused by tonsillar lymphoma presenting as asymmetric tonsillar hypertrophy. Tonsillar lymphoma is rare, but can present as hypertrophied tonsils and/or adenopathy and lead to the development of OSA. This report emphasizes the importance of a thorough upper airway examination of all patients undergoing evaluation for OSA.