Medical Emergencies · single question
What is the most common cause of sleep apnea in CHILDREN?
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Correct answer: A. Adenotonsillar hypertrophy
In CHILDREN, adenotonsillar hypertrophy (enlarged tonsils and adenoids) is the most common cause of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The enlarged lymphoid tissue obstructs the upper airway during sleep. Treatment is usually adenotonsillectomy. In ADULTS, obesity is the primary cause.
- A. Incorrect. Obesity is the primary risk for adult OSA — in children, adenotonsillar hypertrophy predominates.
- B. CORRECT. Adenotonsillar hypertrophy is the most common cause of pediatric OSA.
- C. Incorrect. Retrognathia is a contributing factor in some children but not the most common cause.
- D. Incorrect. Allergic rhinitis causes nasal obstruction but is not the primary cause of frank OSA in children.
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