Name of the Condition

• Hypertrophy of Tonsils with Hypertrophy of Adenoids
• Also known as enlarged tonsils and adenoids.

Summary

Hypertrophy of the tonsils and adenoids is a condition where these lymphatic tissues become enlarged, often causing breathing difficulties, sleep disturbances, and other related issues. These are common problems in children but can also affect adults.

Causes

• Chronic infections or repeated upper respiratory infections.
• Allergies or irritants.
• Sometimes, the exact cause remains unknown.

Risk Factors

• Young age, especially children.
• Family history of enlarged tonsils/adenoids.
• Frequent infections or allergies.

Symptoms

• Difficulty breathing through the nose.
• Snoring or sleep apnea.
• Frequent ear infections.
• Sore throat or difficulty swallowing.

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a healthcare provider.
• Endoscopy or imaging studies to view the size of the tonsils and adenoids.
• Sleep study if sleep apnea is suspected.

Treatment Options

• Medications: Antibiotics for infections; corticosteroids to reduce swelling.
• Surgical: Tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy if symptoms are severe or persistent.
• Treatments aim to ease symptoms, improve quality of life, and prevent complications.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Many children may naturally outgrow the condition.
• Surgical intervention is highly effective when indicated.
• Regular follow-ups to monitor symptoms and manage recurrence are important.

Complications

• Untreated hypertrophy can lead to chronic ear infections, sleep apnea, or difficulty breathing.
• May affect speech development or result in dental problems in children.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintaining good hygiene to prevent infections.
• Managing allergies and avoiding irritants like smoke.
• Regular health check-ups to catch and manage symptoms early.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
• Excessive daytime sleepiness or snoring in children.
• Recurrent ear infections or significant voice changes.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery: https://www.entnet.org
• National Institutes of Health: https://www.nih.gov

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the correct application of ICD code J35.3 for combination hypertrophy of tonsils and adenoids.
• Distinguish between hypertrophy and infections when coding.
• Verify if the condition is primary or associated with other conditions for comprehensive coding.