euSTachIan TuBe DySfuncTIon of aDenoID orIGIn

E tube dysfunction represents one of the most frequent otic pathologies, being the starting point for almost all the acute or chronic otic inflammatory processes and their consequences. Tubal dysfunction and otitis media with effusion are the most frequent pathologies within the pediatric population. During their first seven years of life almost 70% of children present at least one episode of Eustachian tube dysfunction and two episodes of otitis media with effusion, the incidence peak being in the first two years. The Eustachian tube is the tubular structure that links two of the major areas of interest: the ear and the nasopharynx. Bluestone and Doyle attributed three major functions to the Eustachian tube – ventilation, clearance and protection of the middle ear [1]. Any abstract. Objective: Eustachian tube dysfunction is one of the most frequent otic pathologies, being the starting point in most local inflammatory processes. Within the pediatric population, the adenoidal hypertrophy is the most frequent cause of tubal dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to show the implications of adenoid tissue hypertrophy in the genesis of Eustachian tube dysfunction. Methods: The study covered 18 months and included 126 child patients, between 3 and 6 years of age, diagnosed with chronic rhinoadenoiditis. All patients were carefully investigated, clinically and paraclinically (nasal and otic endoscopy, tympanogram, tubal manometry). Results: 98 patients presented otic and rhinologic moderate or severe symptoms and in these cases an adenoidectomy was performed. The other 28 children with low intensity symptoms received medical treatment. The re-evaluation made after four weeks revealed a very good evolution of symptoms after the surgery. Conclusions: Adenoid hypertrophy is the first cause of Eustachian tube dysfunction in children. To ensure a normal function of the auditory tube, in these cases an adenoidectomy must be performed, followed by a periodic reassessment.