Topic

Chronic Tonsillitis
By:
Umaira Kanwal
Roll no. 53
Content
• Anatomy of Tonsils
• Overview of Acute tonsillitis
• Chronic tonsillitis
• Aetiology and Types
• Clinical Features
• Diagnosis
• Treatment Options
• Non Surgical Treatments
• Complications
• Preventions
• Conclusion
Anatomy of Tonsils
• Tonsils are a part of the lymphatic system and are located in the back of the throat.

• There are four types of tonsils:

• Palatine tonsils: Located on each side of the throat.

• Lingual tonsils: Situated at the base of the tongue.

• Pharyngeal tonsils (adenoids): Found in the upper part of the throat behind the nose.

• Tubal Tonsils: found posterior to the opening of eustachian tube on the lateral wall of Nasopharynx

• The tonsils are composed of lymphoid tissue, which contains immune cells that help protect against
infections.

• They play a crucial role in the body's immune response by trapping and fighting off bacteria and viruses
that enter through the mouth and nose.\

• The tonsils have numerous pits and folds called crypts, which can collect debris, bacteria, and other
particles.
Overview of Acute tonsillitis
• Acute tonsillitis is a common condition characterized by the sudden inflammation and
infection of the tonsils.

• It primarily affects children and adolescents, but can also occur in adults.

• The condition is usually caused by bacterial or viral infections, with the most common
bacterial pathogen being Streptococcus pyogenes.

• Clinical features include:

• Sore throat, often severe

• Swollen and red tonsils with white or yellow patches

• Difficulty swallowing

• Fever and chills

• Headache and body aches

• Diagnosis is typically based on medical history, physical examination, and sometimes

throat culture.
Chronic tonsillitis
• Chronic tonsillitis refers to the long-term inflammation and
infection of the tonsils, which are lymphoid tissues located at the
back of the throat.

• Common condition affecting both children and adults.

• This presentation will cover the various aspects of chronic

tonsillitis.
Aetiology and Types
• Aetiology:
• Bacterial infections (most commonly Streptococcus pyogenes)
• Viral infections (such as Epstein-Barr virus)
• Recurrent acute tonsillitis
• Chronic sinusitis or allergies

• Types:
• Chronic follicular tonsillitis: Presence of multiple, small, yellowish-white spots on the
tonsils.
• Chronic parenchymatous tonsillitis: Enlargement of the tonsils with an irregular surface
and deep crypts.
• Chronic Fibroid tonsillitis: Tonsils are small but infected with history of repeated sore
throat.
Clinical Features
• Sore throat: Persistent or recurrent.

• Bad breath: Due to the accumulation of bacteria and debris in the tonsil crypts.

• Difficulty swallowing: Enlarged tonsils can obstruct the throat.

• Tonsillar stones: Hardened masses formed in the tonsil crypts.

• Enlarged cervical lymph nodes: Resulting from chronic infection.

Diagnosis
• Thorough medical history and physical examination.

• Throat culture: Identifies the presence of bacteria (such as streptococcus) causing the
infection.

• Imaging studies: X-ray, ultrasound, or CT scan may be used to assess the size and
condition of the tonsils.
Treatment Options
• Antibiotics:
• Prescribed to treat bacterial infections.
• Penicillin or other appropriate antibiotics are commonly used.

• Tonsillectomy:
• Surgical removal of the tonsils.
• Considered for severe or recurrent cases, or when complications arise.
• Provides long-term relief.
Non-Surgical Treatment
• Saltwater gargles: Helps reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.

• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medications to manage discomfort.

• Rest and hydration: Promotes healing and boosts the immune system.
Complications
• Peritonsillar abscess: A collection of pus behind the tonsils.

• Chronic/recurrent sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses due to the spread of

infection.

• Rheumatic fever: A rare but serious complication resulting from untreated

streptococcal infections.

• Obstructive sleep apnea: Enlarged tonsils may obstruct the airway during sleep,
leading to breathing difficulties.
Prevention
• Good oral hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing.

• Avoiding close contact with infected individuals.

• Strengthening the immune system through a healthy diet and exercise.

• Prompt treatment of acute tonsillitis to prevent chronicity.

Conclusion
• Chronic tonsillitis is a common condition characterized by long-term inflammation
and infection of the tonsils.

• It can cause significant discomfort and may require medical intervention.

• Treatment options range from antibiotics to surgical removal of the tonsils.

• Early diagnosis and appropriate management are essential to prevent complications

and improve quality of life.