Adenoidskullxr
A skull X-ray that measures the size of adenoid glands in the back of the nose to help diagnose breathing or sinus problems.
{"Measures adenoid gland size using a special skull X-ray view","Helps doctors evaluate breathing difficulties, snoring, or sleep apnea","Commonly used in children with chronic nasal congestion or ear problems","The procedure is quick, painless, and uses minimal radiation","Results help determine if treatment or surgery is needed"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 60648-3
- Short code
- ADNW
- Synonyms
- Adenoid Skull XR
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- N/A - Imaging study, no specimen collected
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 3
- Ref high
- 15
- Critical range
- — – 25 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 2–18 years
- Method
- xr-measured
- CPT
- 70360
- SNOMED
- 363679005
- Specimen volume
- N/A - Imaging study, no specimen collected
- Stability
- N/A - Imaging study, images stored in PACS system
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 1–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
An adenoid width skull X-ray is an imaging test that measures the size of the adenoids—lymphatic tissues located in the upper throat behind the nose. This test takes a special X-ray view of the skull to show how large the adenoids are and how much space they are taking up in the nasal passage.
Why is it performed?
Doctors order this test when patients (often children) have symptoms like chronic nasal congestion, mouth breathing, snoring, sleep difficulties, frequent ear infections, or suspected sleep apnea. The X-ray helps doctors see if enlarged adenoids are blocking the airway and causing these problems.
What to expect during the test
The test is simple and quick. The patient sits or stands still while the X-ray machine takes a picture of the side of the head. The patient may need to hold their breath briefly. There is no pain, and the radiation exposure is very low. The entire procedure takes only a few minutes.
Reference range
Adenoid width typically measures 3-15mm in children; less than 12mm generally considered normal, 12-20mm indicates mild to moderate enlargement, greater than 20mm suggests significant adenoid hypertrophyN/A
No special preparation required. Patient should remain still during X-ray exposure. Remove any metallic objects from the head and neck area. Parental presence may help calm pediatric patients.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is the radiation from this X-ray dangerous?
Do I need to prepare anything before the test?
When will I get my results?
Can adults have this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy