Paradise Criteria for Tonsillectomy in Children
Identifies children who are most likely to benefit from tonsillectomy based on frequency and severity of sore throat episodes. Threshold: ≥7 episodes in 1 year, or ≥5/year for 2 years, or ≥3/year for 3 years.
Score interpretation
Below threshold — does not meet Paradise criteria for tonsillectomy
→ Watchful waiting; antibiotics for acute infections; reassess annually; consider if quality of life significantly impaired or other indications (OSA, abscess)
Meets frequency and severity threshold for tonsillectomy consideration
→ Discuss tonsillectomy with ENT; shared decision-making with family; weigh surgical risks against recurrent infection burden
Interpretation bands for the Paradise Criteria. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Paradise JL et al. Efficacy of tonsillectomy for recurrent throat infection in severely affected children. N Engl J Med. 1984;310(11):674–683.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Ibuprofen (Paediatric) · NSAID / Analgesic / Antipyretic
- Paracetamol (Paediatric) · Analgesic / Antipyretic — First-Line Pain and Fever in Children
- Morphine (Paediatric) · Opioid Analgesic — Moderate to Severe Pain in Children
- Gentamicin (Paediatric) · Aminoglycoside — Neonatal Sepsis / Gram-Negative Infections in Children
- Vancomycin (Paediatric) · Glycopeptide Antibiotic — MRSA / Severe Gram-Positive Infections in Children
- Iron Supplementation (Paediatric) · Iron Supplement — Iron Deficiency Anaemia in Children
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.