The comparison of tonsillar surface and core cultures in recurrent tonsillitis

Guidance of clinical management for patients with tonsillar focal disease

Tonsillar focal diseases (TFDs) are defined as "diseases caused by organic and/or functional damage in organs distant from tonsil, and the disease outcome is improved by tonsillectomy." Although several reports and reviews have shown the efficacy of tonsillectomy for TFDs, no guidelines for the clinical management of the diagnosis and treatment of TFDs have been reported. Therefore, the Society of Stomato-pharyngology established a committee to guide the clinical management of patients with TFDs, and the original guide was published in May 2023. This article summarizes the English version of the manuscript. We hope that the concept of TFDs will spread worldwide, and that one as many patients with TFDs will benefit from tonsillectomy.

Hydrogen Peroxide as a Haemostatic Agent in Tonsillectomy Bleed: An Overview

Tonsillectomy as a surgical procedure has been practiced by ENT surgeons for a very long time. A common indication for Tonsillectomy is Chronic Tonsillitis, among others. The surgery is largely safe irrespective of the method used. Haemorrhage can be a life-threatening complication post Tonsillectomy if it is not identified and treated immediately. Various techniques are used to achieve haemostasis and prevent haemorrhage including surgical tie, cautery, local application of adrenaline or hydrogen peroxide among others. To understand the vasoconstrictive and haemostatic properties of Hydrogen Peroxide in Tonsillectomy bleed. One hundred and thirty-three (133) patients undergoing Tonsillectomy for Chronic Tonsillitis were part of the study. Dissection and Snare technique was performed. 23 patients needed the use of cautery/knot for haemostasis and were then excluded from the study. To avoid bias, dissection of the right tonsil was taken as Group 1 and left tonsil as Group 2. Normal Saline soaked cotton ball was used to give local pressure in the tonsillar fossa in Group 1 and 3% Hydrogen Peroxide soaked cotton ball was used in Group 2. Blood loss and time taken to dissect were taken as parameters of study. In Group 1, it took 14.29 min on an average from first incision to completion. In Group 2, it took 12.15 min on an average from first incision to completion. The time in Group 2 was 14.97% lesser than Group 1. The average blood loss in Group 1 was 56.47 ml and in Group 2 the same value stood at 47.41 ml. The blood loss in Group 2 was 16.04% lesser than in Group 1. There were no complications encountered. Powered by Editorial Manager® and ProduXion Manager® from Aries Systems Corporation 3% Hydrogen Peroxide is a potent agent for antimicrobial activity and haemostasis when introduced in the tonsillar fossa post tonsillectomy. When used in moderation, it is very effective in preventing blood loss. Also, there are no serious complications associated with the use of Hydrogen Peroxide as a haemostatic agent.

Bacteria Patterns on Tonsillar Surface and Tonsillar Core Tissue among Patients Scheduled for Tonsillectomy at Bugando Medical Centre, Mwanza, Tanzania

Background: Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils due to either viruses or bacteria. Here, we report the bacteria patterns on the tonsillar surface and tonsillar core tissue among patients scheduled for tonsillectomy at Bugando Medical Centre (BMC), Mwanza Tanzania. Methods: The study included 120 patients planned for tonsillectomy between April and July 2019. Swab samples from tonsillar surface pre-tonsillectomy and core post-tonsillectomy were collected. Culture was performed following the microbiology laboratory standard operating procedures. Data analysis was completed using STATA version 13, as per the study objectives. Results: The slight majority of participants were males (73; 60.83%) with median age of 6 years (interquartile range 4–11). The proportion of positive culture growth was higher on the surface than in core swab samples: 65 (54.2%) vs. 42 (35.0%), p = 0.003. The commonest bacterial pathogen detected from the surface and core were S. aureus in 29 (40.3%) and 22 (51.2%) participants, followed by S. pyogenes in 17 (23.6%) and 11 (25.6%), respectively. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was observed in 20/51 (39%) of isolates. Streptococcus pyogenes resistance to macrolides ranged from 8.3% for core isolates to 35.3% for surface isolates. Features suggestive of tonsillitis on histology were reported in 83 (73.5%) samples. Conclusion: More than two-thirds of patients undergoing tonsillectomy had a positive culture for possible bacterial pathogens. Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes were the predominant bacteria detected with more than one third of Staphylococcus aureus being MRSA. More studies to investigate the treatment outcome of these patients are highly recommended.

S. aureus and K. pneumoniae on the Surface and within Core of Tonsils in Adults with Recurrent Tonsillitis

Background and Objectives: Recurrent tonsillitis is an infection of the palatine tonsils. Samples for microbiological testing are usually obtained from the inflamed surface of the tonsils. Colonizing the surface bacteria does not always correlate with pathogens causing recurrent tonsillitis and there is no consensus or this in research studies. The aim of the study was to compare whether Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) differ when isolated from the tonsillar surface or tonsillar crypts in patients with recurrent tonsillitis. Materials and Methods: a case series study was conducted at a tertiary referral center among 25 patients diagnosed with recurrent tonsillitis. An evaluation of S. aureus and K. pneumoniae incidence, biofilm formation and antibacterial susceptibility was performed. Results: There was a statistically significant association between surface and punch biopsy samples for S. aureus (Fisher’s Exact test p = 0.004) and K. pneumoniae (Fisher’s Exact test p < 0.001). A McNemar test did not reveal a statistically significant association. Although the antibacterial resistance profile was not broad, five out of nine S. aureus isolates were biofilm producers and four out of five K. pneumoniae isolates were biofilm producers. Conclusions: Surface and core cultures of tonsils are comparable with a differing incidence between the surface and the punch biopsy cultures for S. aureus and K. pneumoniae. A larger quantity of bacteria exist in surface samples suggesting that a biopsy sample may be less challenging in evaluating recurrent tonsillitis. We recommend that antibacterial susceptibility results are considered alongside the biofilm-forming potential of isolated bacteria.

Effectiveness of antibacterial agents against cell-invading bacteria such as Streptococcus pyogenes and Haemophilus influenzae

BACKGROUND

Recurrent tonsillitis is one of the most common otolaryngological disorders caused by cell-invading bacteria, such as Streptococcus pyogenes (S. pyogenes) and Haemophilus influenzae. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of antibacterial agents against cell-invading bacteria.

METHODS

The intracellular invasion of Detroit 562 cells by five strains of nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) and four strains of S. pyogenes was investigated. The antibacterial agents used were garenoxacin (GRNX), clarithromycin (CAM), amoxicillin (AMPC), cefditoren pivoxil (CDTR-PI), and levofloxacin (LVFX).

RESULTS

Both NTHi and S. pyogenes fully invaded Detroit 562 cells in 6 h and were less sensitive to CAM. GRNX, CAM, and LVFX were effective against bacteria invading the cells, but AMPC and CDTR-PI were not effective. GRNX was the most effective.

CONCLUSION

GRNX was the most effective agent against bacteria invading cells.

The international sinonasal microbiome study: A multicentre, multinational characterization of sinonasal bacterial ecology

The sinonasal microbiome remains poorly defined, with our current knowledge based on a few cohort studies whose findings are inconsistent. Furthermore, the variability of the sinus microbiome across geographical divides remains unexplored. We characterize the sinonasal microbiome and its geographical variations in both health and disease using 16S rRNA gene sequencing of 410 individuals from across the world. Although the sinus microbial ecology is highly variable between individuals, we identify a core microbiome comprised of Corynebacterium, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Haemophilus and Moraxella species in both healthy and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) cohorts. Corynebacterium (mean relative abundance = 44.02%) and Staphylococcus (mean relative abundance = 27.34%) appear particularly dominant in the majority of patients sampled. Amongst patients suffering from CRS with nasal polyps, a statistically significant reduction in relative abundance of Corynebacterium (40.29% vs 50.43%; P = .02) was identified. Despite some measured differences in microbiome composition and diversity between some of the participating centres in our cohort, these differences would not alter the general pattern of core organisms described. Nevertheless, atypical or unusual organisms reported in short-read amplicon sequencing studies and that are not part of the core microbiome should be interpreted with caution. The delineation of the sinonasal microbiome and standardized methodology described within our study will enable further characterization and translational application of the sinus microbiota.

Tonsillar surface swab bacterial culture results differ from those of the tonsillar core in recurrent tonsillitis

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

We aimed to determine whether there was a difference between core and surface bacteriology of Finnish adults with recurrent or chronic tonsillitis to understand whether a surface swab is worthwhile and which bacteria are involved.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series.

METHODS

Uninflamed tonsillar surface swabs and core biopsies were taken prior to and during surgery, respectively, in 103 patients aged 16 to 66 years undergoing tonsillectomy for recurrent or chronic tonsillitis. The McNemar test was used to determine differences between the surface and core in the most prevalent bacterial species.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven bacterial species were isolated in addition to normal flora and were more commonly found in the core (1.11 surface and 4.75 core bacteria isolated per patient). Viridans group streptococci were the most commonly detected bacteria, found in 88% of the patients, mainly in the core. The bacteria in general were mainly isolated from the core. Of the 10 most prevalent bacteria, only group C β-hemolytic streptococci showed no difference between detection from core and surface swabs. Other bacteria found mainly in the core include Prevotella melaninogenica, Staphylococcus aureus, and fusobacteria.

CONCLUSIONS

There is discord between the surface and core bacteria. A different population of bacteria exists in the core, especially anaerobic bacteria, suggesting that a core sample may be useful in evaluating recurrent and chronic tonsillitis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 2019.

The bacterial community and local lymphocyte response are markedly different in patients with recurrent tonsillitis compared to obstructive sleep apnoea

INTRODUCTION

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is now a more common indication for tonsillectomy than recurrent tonsillitis (RT) [1,2]. Few studies have addressed possible differences in pathogenesis between these two conditions. Children with RT and OSA are often being treated in the community with multiple courses of antibiotics before surgery. Current understanding of the role of bacteria in disorders of the tonsils is mainly based on the culture of tonsil swabs. Swab cultures reflect only a very small fraction of the bacteria present on the mucosal surface and may not represent the bacterial communities within the tonsil crypts [3,4]. This study aimed to evaluate the local lymphocyte response and associations with bacterial community composition using molecular techniques of the tonsils removed from children for RT or OSA.

METHOD

The palatine tonsils were removed by extracapsular dissection from 24 patients with age range one to ten years, 14 of whom had RT and 10 had OSA. The fixed tonsil tissues were evaluated for bacteria by Gram-staining and presence of connective tissue by safranin staining. B lymphocytes and T lymphocytes were also measured immunohistochemically. Finally, previously published bacterial community data for this cohort were reassessed for associations with RT and OSA, and with the observed lymphocyte patterns.

RESULTS

In tonsils from patients with RT, large micro-colonies of bacteria were observed in the tonsil crypts, and a large number of B and T lymphocytes were noted immediately adjacent to the tonsil crypt itself. In marked contrast, the tonsils from patients with OSA had no bacteria identified, and no significant skewing of lymphocytes based on site (such as follicles or crypts). We observed that the majority of lymphocytes surrounding the bacterial micro-colonies were B lymphocytes with a mean ratio of 109:55 (B lymphocytes: T lymphocytes). Bacterial community diversity was not different between the two cohorts; however, there were significant differences in bacterial community composition. Children with RT had a higher relative abundance of members from the genera Parvimonas, Prevotella, and Treponema. While children with OSA had a higher relative abundance of Haemophilus, and Capnocytophaga.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate significant differences in the local lymphocyte response and bacterial community composition in tonsil tissue between RT and OSA patients. It suggests that the response to antibiotics used in the treatment of these two conditions may be different. Furthermore, the presence of lymphocytes in RT within the tonsil crypt outside the tonsil epithelium is a unique observation of the location of these cells.

[The Microbiome - The Unscheduled Parameter for Future Therapies]

The microbiome is defined as the total of cellular microorganisms of baczerial, viral or e. g., parasite origin living on the surface of a body. Within the anatomical areas of otorhinolaryngology, a significant divergence and variance can be demonstrated. For ear, nose, throat, larynx and cutis different interactions of microbiome and common factors like age, diet and live style factors (e. g., smoking) have been detected in recent years. Besides, new insights hint at a passible pathognomic role of the microbiome towards diseases in the ENT area. This review article resumes the present findings of this rapidly devloping scientific area.

Palatal Petechiae in the Absence of Group A Streptococcus in Pediatric Patients with Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Deterioration: A Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Palatal petechiae are 95% specific for streptococcal pharyngitis. Despite this, and despite prior research demonstrating that Group A Streptococcus (GAS) is a common antecedent to pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS) episodes, we anecdotally observed a low rate of documented GAS in patients with PANS and palatal petechiae. This retrospective chart review was conducted to formally report the rate of palatal petechiae and concurrent GAS in a cohort of patients with PANS and investigate other etiologic factors.

METHODS

The clinical notes of 112 patients seen at the Stanford PANS Clinic who met PANS research criteria were reviewed for mention of palatal petechiae. The medical records of patients who demonstrated palatal petechiae on physical examination were reviewed for signs of infection, a clinical history of trauma, and laboratory results that could indicate other causes of petechiae.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients had documented palatal petechiae on physical examination (ages 5-16, 13/23 [57%] male). Fifteen patients had a rapid GAS test and GAS culture in the Stanford PANS clinic, all with negative results. Evidence of recent GAS infection was found in 8/23 (32%) patients (elevated GAS titers [n = 6] or documentation of a positive rapid GAS test at another facility [n = 2]), one of whom also had potential herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection. One patient had potential HSV infection and recent palatal trauma. No patients had thrombocytopenia. 14/23 (61%) of patients with palatal petechiae had no discernable cause of petechiae. 10/19 (53%) of patients had antihistone antibodies.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the established relationship between palatal petechiae and GAS, no patient with palatal petechiae in our clinic tested positive for GAS and only 32% had evidence of recent GAS. Most did not have an identifiable cause for the palatal lesions. This finding suggests the potential for alternative causes of palatal petechiae or undetectable GAS in our patient population. The high prevalence of palatal petechiae without GAS infection suggests that the pathogenesis of PANS is multifactorial and may involve disruption or inflammation of the microvasculature. Additional research is needed to further elucidate these findings.

Clinical Management of Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome: Part III-Treatment and Prevention of Infections

Objectives: Pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS) and its subset, pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with streptococcal infection (PANDAS), are emerging autoimmune encephalopathies of childhood. Management guidelines are needed. This article, from the PANS/PANDAS Consortium, presents a consensus management guideline for the infection components. Accompanying papers from the Consortium discuss psychiatric and immunomodulatory management. Methods: Literature was reviewed and integrated with the clinical experience of the authors to provide a set of practical guidelines. This article was submitted to all members of the PANS/PANDAS Consortium, and their additional comments were added. Results: The relationships between PANS and infections are reviewed. An approach to the retrospective diagnosis of group A streptococcal infection for an operational definition of PANDAS is proposed. An initial course of anti-streptococcal treatment is proposed for all newly diagnosed PANS cases. Chronic secondary antimicrobial prophylaxis is suggested for children with PANDAS who have severe neuropsychiatric symptoms or recurrent group A Streptococcus-associated exacerbations. Guidelines for children with non-streptococcal PANS include vigilance for streptococcal pharyngitis or dermatitis in the patient and close contacts. All patients with PANS or PANDAS should also be closely monitored for other intercurrent infections, including sinusitis and influenza. Intercurrent infections should be diagnosed and treated promptly according to current standard guidelines. A guideline for the assessment of infection at initial onset or during neuropsychiatric exacerbations is also presented. Standard immunizations and attention to vitamin D are encouraged. Data indicating limited utility of adenotonsillectomy and probiotics are presented. Conclusion: A working guideline for the management of infection issues in PANS and PANDAS, based on literature and expert opinion, is provided.

Anaerobic Bacteriological Microbiota in Surface and Core of Tonsils in Chronic Tonsillitis

INTRODUCTION

Tonsillar infection may stem from bacteria within tonsillar crypts or parenchyma rather than from those on the surface. Pathogens isolated from surface culture may be colonizing the tonsil, but not essentially infecting it. Anaerobes though not often studied, are known to cause chronic tonsillitis.

AIM

To study the correlation of anaerobic bacterial isolates in surface and core cultures from recurrently infected and inflamed tonsils.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted in Charitable Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Belagavi from January 2014 to December 2014 on 100 patients of chronic tonsillitis who underwent tonsillectomy. Swabs were obtained from tonsil surface and core and analysed for anaerobes as per standard protocol. Chi-square test and Fischer-Exact test were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Twenty eight out of 63 (44.4%) patients had anaerobic growth on tonsil surface and 30 out of 62 (48.4%) patients had anaerobic growth in tonsil core. Porphyromonas sp. was the most common anaerobe isolated from the surface as well as from the core. There was no statistical significance between anaerobes isolated in the tonsil surface and core.

CONCLUSION

Anaerobic organisms obtained from tonsil surface and core cultures were similar. A throat swab satisfactorily depicts the core organism and is reliable in recognizing the bacteriology of chronic tonsillitis. Anaerobic organisms known to inhabit the surface as well as the core of tonsils may be treated with suitable antibiotic therapy.

RGB Measurements From Endoscopic Photography as a New and Objective Diagnostic Method for Chronic Tonsillitis

PURPOSE

This study assessed the diagnostic role of a digital photographic assessment of chronic tonsillitis. This study was performed at a tertiary referral center.

METHODS

Three cohorts of children were studied based on their diagnoses: current chronic tonsillitis (before tonsillectomy), previous chronic tonsillitis (3 months after tonsillectomy), and healthy children (control group). Oropharyngeal regions of all subjects were examined and photographed endoscopically. Red/green/blue (RGB) values of particular oropharyngeal points were then measured.

FINDINGS

The current chronic tonsillitis group differed significantly from the other 2 groups. The RGB values of the current chronic tonsillitis group were significantly higher than those of the previous chronic tonsillitis group (3 months after tonsillectomy) and the control group (P = 0.018 (red), P = 0.024 (green), and P = 0.004 (blue)). The RGB values did not differ significantly between the previous chronic tonsillitis group and the control group (P = 0.684 [red], P = 0.890 [green], and P = 0.672 [blue]). The RGB values of the previous chronic tonsillitis group decreased significantly 3 months after tonsillectomy (P = 0.015 [red], P = 0.033 [green], and P = 0.001 [blue]). Sensitivity was 80%, specificity was 90%, the positive predictive value was 59%, the negative predictive value was 96%, and the general power of the test was 88.6% regarding the power and competence of the RGB test in the diagnosis of chronic tonsillitis.

IMPLICATIONS

Measuring RGB values may be an inexpensive and simple way to quickly provide objective and corroborative information on hyperemia of the anterior pillars in diagnosing chronic tonsillitis in conjunction with subjective methods.

Immunization with heat-inactivated Staphylococcus aureus induced an antibody response mediated by IgG1 and IgG2 in patients with recurrent tonsillitis

Currently Staphylococcus aureus is the predominant pathogen isolated from the respiratory tract of patients with recurrent tonsillitis. Because of an increase in multi-drug resistant strains of S. aureus, there is a pressing need for effective treatments and preventive approaches to reduce the risk of invasive and life-threatening infections. A preventive vaccine against S. aureus would have a tremendous clinical impact. However, multiple clinical trials have failed to identify an agent that can induce protective responses. Most trials have been based on subunit vaccines using one or a few purified antigens, which may not be enough to confer protection. Here, the impact of a whole-cell vaccine comprised of heat-inactivated S. aureus was investigated in patients with RT. The vaccine was well tolerated and had no significant local or systemic reactions. Immunization with heat-inactivated S. aureus elicited a significant antibody response characterized by production of IgG1 and IgG2 antibodies and, to a lesser extent, of IgA antibodies. Notably, this response was associated with an important decrease in the incidence of tonsillitis and bacterial colonization of the oropharyngeal mucosa. Our results show that whole-cell inactivated S. aureus is safe and capable of evoking specific antibody responses in patients with recurrent tonsillitis.

Effect of antibiotic use on bacterial flora of tonsil core in patients with recurrent tonsillitis

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of commonly used antibiotics on bacterial flora of the tonsil core. Patients who underwent tonsillectomy for recurrent chronic tonsillitis were included in the study. Three groups were formed: group 1 was treated for 10 days preoperatively with amoxicillin/clavulanic acid; group 2 was treated for 10 days preoperatively with clarithromycin; and group 3 included patients who underwent tonsillectomy without preoperative antibiotic use. The removed palatine tonsils were sent to our microbiology department in sterile tubes for bacteriological analysis. Seventy-three patients (group 1 = 19, group 2 = 20, group 3 = 34 patients) aged 3-18 years (mean 7 years) were included in the study. At least one bacterium was isolated from all tonsils, except for two cases in group 1; the difference in single bacterial growth among groups was not significant (p = 0.06). On the other hand, the numbers of patients with pathogenic bacterial growth was significantly lower in group 2 (n = 2) compared with group 1 (n = 10) and group 3 (n = 27) (p < 0.001). The bacterium isolated most frequently from the tonsils was Streptococcus viridans. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the only pathogenic bacterium that grew in all three groups. Clarithromycin was more effective than amoxicillin/clavulanic acid in eradicating pathogenic bacteria in the tonsil core. Pseudomonas aeruginosa might be responsible for resistant or recurrent tonsil infections. To prevent endocarditis, antibiotic prophylaxis toward S. viridians, which is the most prevalent bacterium in the tonsil core, should be kept in mind for patients with heart valve damage.

Posttonsillectomy bacteremia and comparison of tonsillar surface and deep culture

Objective. This study aimed to identify the microorganisms of surface and depth of tonsils and whether these microorganisms bring the menace of bacteremia during tonsillectomy in the children under surgery. Materials and Methods. The culture specimens were taken from surface and depth of tonsil from the patients suffering from chronic tonsillitis at the time of operation. Also, 10 mL venous blood samples were taken 5 minutes before and after the operation for microbiological study. Results. According to the results, 112 (76.1%) and 117 (79.6%) cultures from surface and depth of tonsils represented multiple microorganisms, respectively. Besides, staphylococci coagulase positive was the most common organism in both surface and depth of tonsils. None of the preoperation blood cultures were positive, while 3 postoperation blood cultures (2.1%) were positive. Staphylococci coagulase negative and alpha hemolytic streptococcus were detected in 2 cases (1.4%) and 1 case (0.7%), respectively. Conclusion. In the present study, the two cultured sites were almost similar regarding the types of isolated microorganisms. Our results suggested that bacteremia might occur after tonsillectomy. Therefore, to avoid the possible dramatic outcomes after tonsillectomy, pre- and postoperation attendances are essential.

Coexistence of Epstein-Barr virus and Parvovirus B19 in tonsillar tissue samples: quantitative measurement by real-time PCR

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we aimed to investigate the presence and copy number of six different viruses in tonsillar tissue samples removed surgically because of chronic recurrent tonsillitis or chronic obstructive tonsillar hypertrophy.

METHODS

In total, 56 tissue samples (tonsillar core) collected from 44 children and 12 adults were included in this study. The presence of viruses was investigated using a new TaqMan-based quantitative real-time PCR assay.

RESULTS

Of the 56 tissue samples, 67.9% (38/56) were positive for at least one of the six viruses. Epstein-Barr virus was the most frequently detected virus, being found in 53.6% (30/56), followed by human Parvovirus B19 21.4% (12/56), human adenovirus 12.5% (7/56), human Cytomegalovirus 5.4% (3/56), BK polyomavirus 1.8% (1/56), and Herpes simplex virus 1.8% (1/56). Precancerous or cancerous changes were not detected in the tonsillar tissue samples by pathologic examination, whereas lymphoid hyperplasia was observed in 24 patients. In contrast to other viruses, B19 virus was present in high copy number in tonsillar tissues. The rates of EBV and B19 virus with high copy number (>500.000 copies/ml) were higher in children than in adults, and a positive relationship was also found between the presence of EBV and the presence of B19 virus with high copy number (P=0.037).

CONCLUSIONS

It is previously reported that some viral agents are associated with different chronic tonsillar pathologies. In the present study, the presence of B19 virus in tonsillar core samples was investigated quantitatively for the first time, and our data suggests that EBV infections could be associated with B19 virus infections or could facilitate B19 virus replication. However, further detailed studies are needed to clarify this observation.

Evidence of Bacterial Biofilms among Infected and Hypertrophied Tonsils in Correlation with the Microbiology, Histopathology, and Clinical Symptoms of Tonsillar Diseases

Diseases of the tonsils are becoming more resistant to antibiotics due to the persistence of bacteria through the formation of biofilms. Therefore, understanding the microbiology and pathophysiology of such diseases represent an important step in the management of biofilm-related infections. We have isolated the microorganisms, evaluated their antimicrobial susceptibility, and detected the presence of bacterial biofilms in tonsillar specimens in correlation with the clinical manifestations of tonsillar diseases. Therefore, a total of 140 palatine tonsils were collected from 70 patients undergoing tonsillectomy at University Malaya Medical Centre. The most recovered isolate was Staphylococcus aureus (39.65%) followed by Haemophilus influenzae (18.53%). There was high susceptibility against all selected antibiotics except for cotrimoxazole. Bacterial biofilms were detected in 60% of patients and a significant percentage of patients demonstrated infection manifestation rather than obstruction. In addition, an association between clinical symptoms like snore, apnea, nasal obstruction, and tonsillar hypertrophy was found to be related to the microbiology of tonsils particularly to the presence of biofilms. In conclusion, evidence of biofilms in tonsils in correlation with the demonstrated clinical symptoms explains the recalcitrant nature of tonsillar diseases and highlights the importance of biofilm's early detection and prevention towards better therapeutic management of biofilm-related infections.

Molecular mapping to species level of the tonsillar crypt microbiota associated with health and recurrent tonsillitis

The human palatine tonsils, which belong to the central antigen handling sites of the mucosal immune system, are frequently affected by acute and recurrent infections. This study compared the microbiota of the tonsillar crypts in children and adults affected by recurrent tonsillitis with that of healthy adults and children with tonsillar hyperplasia. An in-depth 16S rRNA gene based pyrosequencing approach combined with a novel strategy that included phylogenetic analysis and detection of species-specific sequence signatures enabled identification of the major part of the microbiota to species level. A complex microbiota consisting of between 42 and 110 taxa was demonstrated in both children and adults. This included a core microbiome of 12 abundant genera found in all samples regardless of age and health status. Yet, Haemophilus influenzae, Neisseria species, and Streptococcus pneumoniae were almost exclusively detected in children. In contrast, Streptococcus pseudopneumoniae was present in all samples. Obligate anaerobes like Porphyromonas, Prevotella, and Fusobacterium were abundantly present in children, but the species diversity of Porphyromonas and Prevotella was larger in adults and included species that are considered putative pathogens in periodontal diseases, i.e. Porphyromonas gingivalis, Porphyromonas endodontalis, and Tannerella forsythia. Unifrac analysis showed that recurrent tonsillitis is associated with a shift in the microbiota of the tonsillar crypts. Fusobacterium necrophorum, Streptococcus intermedius and Prevotella melaninogenica/histicola were associated with recurrent tonsillitis in adults, whereas species traditionally associated with acute tonsillitis like pyogenic streptococci and Staphylococcus aureus were scarce. The findings suggest that recurrent tonsillitis is a polymicrobial infection in which interactions within consortia of taxa play an etiologic role. The study contributes to the human microbiome data, to the understanding of the etiology of infections affecting the tonsils, and forms a basis for further insight into the consequences of the intense microbe-host interactions that take place in the tonsils.

Biofilm formation by bacteria isolated from upper respiratory tract before and after adenotonsillectomy

Failure of antibiotics to eradicate the microbial pathogens primarily responsible for otorhinolaryngological diseases has led to the hypothesis that these microorganisms may be structured in a biolfilm. Aim of the study was to evaluate the ability to produce biofilm among bacteria isolated from tonsils and/or adenoids and nasopharynx. Biopsies and swabs were collected during surgery and after 3 and 6 months in 32 children undergoing adenoidectomy and/or tonsillectomy. Production of biofilm by Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Moraxella catarrhalis and Haemophilus influenzae was evaluated in vitro by means of spectrophotometry after growth in microplates and staining with crystalviolet. Of the isolates from intraoperative samples, 44.7% were either moderate or strong biofilm producers compared with 27% of isolates at 6 months after surgery. A decrease in biofilm production was observed for H. influenzae and S. aureus. In conclusion, the rate of isolation and ability to form biofilm decreased in bacteria isolated subsequent to adenoidectomy and/or tonsillectomy. This suggests a role for biofilm in pathogenesis of recurrent and chronic pharyngeal diseases and rhinopharingitis.

The role of matrix metalloproteinases in recurrent tonsillitis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the status of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-7, MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) due to dysregulated turnover of connective tissue matrices in children with recurrent tonsillitis (RT).

METHODS

Forty-four patients with RT were enrolled in the study. All patients with RT were graded according to the hypertrophy degree of the tonsillar tissue from grade I to grade IV. Patients with grade I tonsillar hypertrophy and grade II tonsillar hypertrophy were accepted as group A, patients with grade III tonsillar hypertrophy and grade IV tonsillar hypertrophy were accepted as group B Tonsillectomy was performed via the usual dissection-snare method. Tonsillar specimens of superficial and core region were evaluated for MMP-2, MMP-7, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 analysis.

RESULTS

There was no statistical significance according to the MMP-2, MMP-7, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 activity of superficial part and core regions in both groups individually, MMP-9 level of both the superficial and core regions in group B had statistical significant higher results than group A (p=0.026, p=0.06 respectively). MMP-7 level of the superficial part in group B patients also had statistical significant higher results than group A (p=0.025). However, there was no statistical difference found between superficial and core region MMP-2 and TIMP-1 levels of group A and group B. Related to this, balance between MMP-7-9 and TIMP-1 activities tended to slip MMP-7 and MMP-9 sides with increased tonsillar grade.

CONCLUSIONS

Results from this study suggest that the presence of MMPs in tonsil tissue consolidates the involvement of degraded extracellular matrix proteins in the pathophysiology of chronic tonsillitis. MMPs activity showed diffuse dissemination in the tonsillar tissue and especially MMP-9 and MMP-7 are the main promoters of the extracellular matrix that responded to inflammatory changes in the tonsillar tissue. Further studies are needed concerning the possible efficiency of selective MMP inhibitors on tonsillar tissue.

Intracellular persisting Staphylococcus aureus is the major pathogen in recurrent tonsillitis

Background

The two major indications for tonsillectomy are recurrent tonsillitis (RT) and peritonsillar abscess (PTA). Unlike PTAs, which are primarily treated surgically, RT is often cured by tonsillectomy only after a series of failed drug therapy attempts. Although the bacteriological background of RT has been studied, the reason for the lack of success of conservative therapeutic approaches is not well understood.

Methods

In a prospective study, tonsil specimens from 130 RT patients and 124 PTA patients were examined for the presence of extra- and intracellular bacteria using antibiotic protection assays. Staphylococcus aureus isolates from RT patients were characterized by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), spa-typing and MSCRAMM-gene-PCR. Their ability for biofilm formation was tested and their cell invasiveness was confirmed by a flow cytometric invasion assay (FACS), fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) and immunohistochemistry.

Findings

S. aureus was the predominant species (57.7%) in RT patients, whereas Streptococcus pyogenes was most prevalent (20.2%) in PTA patients. Three different assays (FACS, FISH, antibiotic protection assay) showed that nearly all RT-associated S. aureus strains were located inside tonsillar cells. Correspondingly, the results of the MSCRAMM-gene-PCRs confirmed that 87% of these S. aureus isolates were invasive strains and not mere colonizers. Based upon PFGE analyses of genomic DNA and on spa-gene typing the vast majority of the S. aureus isolates belonged to different clonal lineages.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that intracellular residing S. aureus is the most common cause of RT and indicate that S. aureus uses this location to survive the effects of antibiotics and the host immune response. A German translation of the Abstract is provided as supplementary material (Abstract S1).

Recurrent tonsillitis and tonsillectomy in juvenile idiopathic arthritis

OBJECTIVES

To compare the clinical and bacteriological features of recurrent tonsillitis between patients with and without juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

METHODS

A total of 122 participants, aged 2-18 years, were consecutively recruited into four groups: (i) JIA and recurrent tonsillitis; (ii) JIA; (iii) recurrent tonsillitis; and (iv) healthy. All the patients with recurrent tonsillitis underwent tonsillectomy. Swabs from tonsillar surface crypts of all children and samples from tonsillar core tissue in case of tonsillectomy were processed for culturing. Mycoplasma pneumoniae was determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

RESULTS

Significantly lower rates of recurrences but more frequent tonsillar detritus, paratonsillar scars, and more intensive bleeding during tonsillectomy were found in patients with JIA and recurrent tonsillitis, versus patients with recurrent tonsillitis without arthritis. In JIA patients with recurrent tonsillitis, Staphylococcus aureus was cultured from the tonsillar surface in 36%, and from the core tissue in 92% of cases (p = 0.0000). In patients suffering from recurrent tonsillitis alone, this pathogen was cultured from the core in 55.9% of cases (p = 0.0066 compared to JIA patients with recurrent tonsillitis). No M. pneumoniae was revealed by PCR in samples from the tonsillar surface and the core tissue.

CONCLUSIONS

The increased rate of S. aureus in the core tissue of tonsils, the higher frequency of tonsillar detritus, the more pronounced paratonsillar scarring, and more intensive bleeding during tonsillectomy, associated with the lower frequency of tonsillitis recurrences, are characteristic for recurrent tonsillitis in JIA as compared to recurrent tonsillitis without arthritis.