Tonsillar Hypertrophy

The enlargement of the tonsils, but without a history of inflammation.

Prognosis:

Obstructive tonsillar hypertrophy is currently the most common reason for tonsillectomy.

Manifestations

• varying degrees of disturbed sleep which may include:
• loud snoring
• irregular breathing
• nocturnal choking and coughing
• frequent awakenings
• sleep apnea
• dysphagia

daytime hypersomnolence.

Tonsillar Hypertrophy Grading Scale

Grading Scale

1. Tonsil 0: Tonsils fit within tonsillar fossa
2. Tonsil 1+: Tonsils <25% of space between pillars
3. Tonsil 2+: Tonsils <50% of space between pillars
4. Tonsil 3+: Tonsils <75% of space between pillars
5. Tonsil 4+: Tonsils >75% of space between pillars