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Enlarged adenoids - Overview

Alternative Names

Adenoids - enlarged

Definition of Enlarged adenoids:

Enlarged adenoids refers to swollen lymphatic tissue in the back of the nose. The tissue is similar to the tonsils.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Enlargement of the adenoids may occur naturally (beginning when the baby grows in the womb), or it may be caused by long-term inflammation.

Throat anatomy

Adenoids

Reviewed last on: 12/1/2008
Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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