A 5-year-old child presents with recurrent tonsillitis. According to the Paradise criteria, which indication warrants tonsillectomy?
- A 3 episodes per year for 1 year
- B 5 episodes per year for 2 years
- C 7 episodes in 1 year, or 5 episodes per year for 2 years, or 3 episodes per year for 3 years ✓
- D 10 episodes per year for 1 year
Correct answer: C. 7 episodes in 1 year, or 5 episodes per year for 2 years, or 3 episodes per year for 3 years
Explanation
The Paradise criteria for tonsillectomy in recurrent tonsillitis require: 7 or more episodes in 1 year, OR 5 or more episodes per year for 2 years, OR 3 or more episodes per year for 3 years. These criteria are widely accepted and help identify children who will benefit most from surgery. The other options do not meet the established thresholds for surgical intervention.
Reference: Cummings Otolaryngology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.