Removing tonsils and adenoids in childhood increases the risk of diseases like asthma, influenza and pneumonia, say scientists who have examined the long-term effects of these common paediatric surgeries for the first time.
The researchers suggest renewed evaluation of alternatives to these surgeries that include removal of tonsils (tonsillectomy) to treat chronic tonsillitis or adenoids (adenoidectomy) to treat recurrent middle ear infections.
The adenoids and tonsils are strategically positioned in the nose and throat respectively to act as a first line of defense, helping to recognise airborne pathogens like bacteria and viruses, and begin the immune response to clear them from the body.