Effects of adenotonsillectomy on humoral immunity

Adenotonsillitis is one of the commonest health problems encountered in the general population particularly in children. Tonsillectomy is one of the commonest surgical procedures performed by the otolaryngologists all over the world. 1 Good clinical evidence regarding the need for tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy or both is available, which provides guidance to surgeons. Indications for removal of tonsils or adenoids, or both can be absolute or relative, and depend upon the clinical signs and symptoms of the child. Absolute indications for adenotonsillectomy include adenotonsillar hyperplasia with obstructive sleep apnea, failure to thrive, or abnormal dentofacial growth, suspicion of malignant disease, and hemorrhagic tonsillitis (for tonsillectomy). Relative indications for both procedures are adenotonsillar hyperplasia with upper airway obstruction, dysphagia, or speech impairment, and halitosis. Otitis media and recurrent or chronic rhinosinusitis or adenoiditis are relative indications for adenoidectomy only. Recurrent or chronic pharyngotonsillitis, peritonsillar abscess, and streptococcal carriage are relative indications for tonsillectomy only. 2