Bacteriology of Adenoids and Tonsils in Children With Recurrent Adenotonsillitis

Introduction: Recurrent adenotonsillitis (AT) commonly affects children and may be associated with various complications. Infections are common etiology, and microbial profiles may vary widely in different cases. In this study, we evaluated the bacterial profile and antibiotic sensitivity of pathogens identified in tonsil and adenoid core cultures in children with recurrent AT. Methods: In this cross-sectional, observational study, culture and antibiotic sensitivity were performed from tonsil and adenoid core samples obtained after adenotonsillectomy of children (5 to 18 years) with recurrent AT. Children who had received antibiotics within one week before surgery were excluded. Drug sensitivity was performed only for drugs available on the hospital panel list. Results: Bacterial growth was observed in 83 (91.2%) tonsil core cultures (n=91) and 43 (79.6%) adenoid core cultures (n=54). In the tonsil and adenoid core cultures, poly-microbial growth was seen in 25 (27.0%) and 11 (25.6%) children, respectively. From the tonsil core cultures, the majority of the bacteria were sensitive to ciprofloxacin, ampicillin, piperacillin-tazobactam, cefoperazone-sulbactam, ceftazidime, cefotaxime, levofloxacin. From the adenoid core culture, the majority of the bacteria were sensitive to ciprofloxacin, ampicillin, piperacillin-tazobactam, cefoperazone-sulbactam, cephalexin, and cefotaxime. Conclusion: In recurrent AT, polymicrobial growth is not uncommon in both tonsil and adenoid core cultures. Identifying the correct pathogens and their antibiotic sensitivity patterns can help plan treatment strategies for the effective management of recurrent AT.