josipher32
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The tonsils are regions of lymphoid tissue on both sides of the throat. When most people think of tonsils, they think of the palatine tonsils, the ones that you can see at the back of your throat. Tonsils are a part of the lymphatic system, in that they are part of the immune system that help to aid against infection. They are directly involved in helping to fight off upper respiratory and pharyngeal infections.
The three types of tonsils are collections of lymph nodes enclosed in connective tissue.
* Pharyngeal tonsils or adenoids - are located in the upper pharynx wall.
* Palatine tonsils - are on each side of the soft palate.
* Lingual tonsils - are at the base of the tongue.
Tonsils place lymphocytes into the lymph to destroy invading microrganisms and may become infected in the process. Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils. Adenoids may be involved with tonsillitis. Signs include an itchy throat, along with fever, chills, headache, muscle aches and general body aching. A culture of the tonsil can be obtained to determine the pathogens present and the antibiotics sensitive to the pathogen. Antibiotic therapy can be prescribed along with throat gargles. Surgery (tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy) to remove the tonsils may be performed for recurrent infections.
 Posted 5377 day ago
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