International journal of pediatric otorhinolaryngologyMay 7, 2013

Common Psychiatric Symptoms in Preschool Children with Enlarged Throat Tissues

Updated Feb 17, 2026

Abstract

Forty-eight patients with adenotonsillar hypertrophy were diagnosed with psychiatric disorders more frequently than a control group.

The adenotonsillar hypertrophy group received more psychiatric diagnoses compared to the control group.
Higher rates of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and sleep disorders were observed in the adenotonsillar hypertrophy patients.
Severity of psychiatric symptoms, including ADHD, ODD, anxiety disorders, and sleep disorders, was greater in the adenotonsillar hypertrophy group.
Increased occurrences of attention deficit, hyperactivity, behavioral issues, and peer relations problems were reported more frequently in the adenotonsillar hypertrophy group.

Simplified

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of psychiatric disorders and symptoms in preschool-age children who are indicated for operation due to adenotonsillar hypertrophy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-eight patients between the ages of three and five years with indication for adenotonsillectomy were included in the study, as well as 40 control patients. Cases underwent routine ear nose throat (ENT) examination, flexible nasopharyngoscopy and tympanometry. The Early Childhood Inventory-4 (ECI-4) parent form and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) parent form were completed by the parent caring for the child. The SPSS for Windows 16.0 program was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS: Groups were compared according to they received at least one psychiatric diagnosis measured by ECI-4, the group of adenotonsillar hypertrophy was diagnosed more than the control group. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and sleep disorders were detected at a higher rate in patients with adenotonsillar hypertrophy. It also was established that in the comparison of the severity of psychiatric symptoms determined by ECI-4, symptom severity of ADHD, ODD, anxiety disorders, and sleep disorders was higher in the adenotonsillar hypertrophy group than in the control group. In the evaluation of the SDQ parent form, it was determined that attention deficit, hyperactivity, behavioral, and peer relations problems occurred more frequently in the adenotonsillar hypertrophy group.

CONCLUSIONS: In addition to oral respiration, snoring, and disordered breathing during sleep, adenotonsillar hypertrophy may also associated with psychiatric disorders and symptoms.

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