Which of the following findings on nasal endoscopy is MOST characteristic of adenoid hypertrophy in a child?

• A Pale, oedematous mucosa with stringy mucus in the middle meatus
• B Nasal polyps arising from the middle turbinate
• C Mucopurulent discharge from the sphenoethmoidal recess
• D Lobulated lymphoid mass in the nasopharynx partially or completely obstructing the choana and covering the Eustachian tube openings ✓

Explanation

Enlarged adenoids appear endoscopically as a lobulated (walnut-like) lymphoid mass filling the nasopharyngeal vault, obstructing the posterior choanae, and may cover the Eustachian tube openings (causing middle ear effusion). Pale oedematous mucosa with stringy secretions in the middle meatus suggests allergic rhinitis. Nasal polyps are rare in young children and suggest cystic fibrosis. Mucopurulent discharge from the sphenoethmoidal recess suggests posterior ethmoid/sphenoid sinusitis.

Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.