Prevalence of tonsillar hypertrophy and associated oropharyngeal symptoms in primary school children in Denizli, Turkey

Objective: The purpose of this study is to investigate the prevalence of tonsillar hypertrophy and associated oropharyngeal symptoms in primary school children. Methods: The study was performed in two primary schools which were chosen randomly in Denizli. Size of the tonsils was evaluated and scored on a five-point scale and weights of children were measured. The mothers or primary caregivers of children were asked to fill a questionnaire that included questions concerning the associated symptoms of tonsillar hypertrophy. The interrelations between tonsillar hypertrophy and other studied items were examined by chi(2) tests. Results: The study population consisted of 1211 (636 boys, 575 girls) primary school children between 6 and 13 years old (mean 9.3 +/- 2 years). Prevalence of tonsillar hypertrophy in school children was found as (133) 11% in the school children. There were a statistically significant association between tonsillar hypertrophy and history of frequently having tonsillitis, habitual snoring, observed apnea, oral breathing during sleep and difficulty eating. Conclusion: The prevalence of tonsillar hypertrophy was found to be 11% in school children in Denizli, Turkey. Primary school children with tonsillar hypertrophy have signs and symptoms of frequent upper airway infections and upper airway obstruction so they need further evaluation for associated oropharyngeal symptoms of tonsillar hypertrophy. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.