Tonsil

Tonsil

The tonsils are a pair of soft tissue masses located at the rear of the throat (pharynx). Each tonsil is composed of tissue similar to lymph nodes, covered by pink mucosa (like on the adjacent mouth lining). Running through the mucosa of each tonsil are pits, called crypts.

The tonsils are part of the lymphatic system, which helps to fight infections. They are first line of defense in the immune system, "sampling" bacteria and viruses that enter the body through the mouth or nose.

Anatomy

There are three types of tonsils:

• Palatine tonsils. These are the two tonsils that are visible on either side at the back of the throat.
• Pharyngeal tonsil (adenoids). This tonsil is located higher up in the throat, behind the nose.
• Lingual tonsils. These tonsils are located at the base of the tongue.

Function

The tonsils play a role in the immune system and are meant to function like nets, trapping incoming bacteria and virus particles that are passing through your throat.

Diseases and disorders

Tonsils can become problematic, leading to a condition called Tonsillitis, which is an inflammation of the tonsils caused by either a bacterial or viral infection. Treatment of tonsillitis depends on the cause and the frequency of the illness.

Another problem can be the enlargement of the tonsils. This condition, called Tonsillar Hypertrophy, can cause snoring, mouth breathing, disturbed sleep, and other problems.

Treatment

Treatment for tonsil disorders depends on the cause and severity of the condition. If a bacterial infection is the cause of tonsillitis, antibiotics are usually prescribed. Chronic cases of tonsillitis or severely enlarged tonsils may require a Tonsillectomy, or surgical removal of the tonsils.

See also

• Tonsillitis
• Tonsillar Hypertrophy
• Tonsillectomy

References

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  Diagram of the tonsils

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  Tonsils and throat anatomy

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  Gross pathology of tonsil

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  Tonsils and adenoids