Recurrent Fever in Children After Tonsillectomy
Author Information
Author(s): Espahbodi Mana, Edwards Kathryn M., Goudy Steven L., Penn Edward B. Jr., Manthiram Kalpana
Primary Institution: Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
What are the symptoms associated with PFAPA among children undergoing tonsillectomy?
Conclusion
A subset of children undergoing tonsillectomy exhibited symptoms consistent with PFAPA, suggesting the need for further evaluation.
Supporting Evidence
- 82% of patients participated in the study.
- 88% of participants had obstructive sleep apnea as an indication for surgery.
- 11% reported six or more episodes of stereotypical fever in a year.
Takeaway
Some kids who have their tonsils taken out also have a pattern of fevers that might mean they have a condition called PFAPA.
Methodology
Parents of children undergoing tonsillectomy were surveyed about fever symptoms before and after the procedure.
Potential Biases
Potential recall bias from parents regarding their child's medical history.
Limitations
The study relied on parental recall and did not review medical records from referring physicians.
Participant Demographics
{"mean_age":6.8,"gender_distribution":{"female":51,"male":49},"ethnicity":{"non_hispanic":90,"hispanic":10},"race":{"white":83,"african_american":18,"american_indian":13,"asian":3,"other":1,"unknown":1}}
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.04
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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