Scientists have linked the removal of tonsils with the risk of multiple sclerosis in children

Removal of tonsils and adenoids — adenotonsillotomy — is associated with an increased risk of developing and higher activity of multiple sclerosis in children. This is reported in a study published in the Multiple Sclerosis Journal (MSJ).

The researchers analyzed data from 359 children with multiple sclerosis and 560 healthy participants from the control group. According to the results of the analysis, those who underwent surgery to remove tonsils or adenoids were 63% more likely to develop the disease. In addition, among the patients who were followed up, the history of adenotonsillotomy was associated with a twofold increase in the frequency of annual relapses.

Scientists note that the Epstein–Barr virus is considered one of the key risk factors for the development of multiple sclerosis, and the tonsils and adenoids serve as the main reservoir for its persistence in the body. For example, tissue removal can disrupt immune homeostasis, leading to long-term destabilization of the body's defenses.

Experts emphasize that the work does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship, but only confirms the existence of a statistical relationship. To clarify the mechanisms of the effect of surgery on the development of autoimmune processes, further prospective studies will be required, taking into account the age of the procedure and specific medical indications for it.

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