adenoidal facies
Pronunciation: ad-eh-NOY-dal FAY-sheez
Characteristic facial appearance in children with chronic mouth breathing due to enlarged adenoids, featuring an elongated face and open mouth posture.
Full Definition
Adenoidal facies refers to the characteristic facial changes that develop in children with chronic nasal obstruction, typically due to adenoid hypertrophy. The condition results from chronic mouth breathing and includes features such as an elongated face, narrow upper jaw, high arched palate, dental malocclusion, and a habitually open mouth with a dull expression. These changes occur due to altered growth patterns when normal nasal breathing is impaired. Early recognition and treatment of the underlying adenoid hypertrophy through medical management or adenoidectomy can prevent progression of these facial changes and associated complications such as obstructive sleep apnea.
Usage
Usage note: Also known as 'long face syndrome' or 'mouth breather facies' in some contexts.
In Context
- "The child exhibited adenoidal facies with chronic mouth breathing and dental crowding." — ENT consultation note
- "Adenoidectomy was recommended to prevent progression of adenoidal facies." — Surgical recommendation