What do the palatine tonsils do?

The function of the palatine tonsils is thought to be associated with preventing infection in the respiratory and digestive tracts by producing antibodies that help kill infective agents. Frequently, however, the tonsils themselves become the objects of infection, and surgical removal (tonsillectomy) is required.

What does the lingual tonsil do?

Like other lymphatic tissues, the function of lingual tonsils is to prevent infections. These tonsils contain B and T lymphocytes which get activated when harmful bacteria and viruses come in contact with tonsils.

Why are tonsils partially encapsulated?

Tonsils are large non-encapsulated (or partially encapsulated) masses of lymphoid tissue, that lie in the walls of the pharynx and nasopharynx and at the base of the tongue. Again, like the MALT, the activated cells mostly secrete IgA type antibodies, which are secreted locally.

What are the 4 types of tonsils?

Tonsils are fleshy masses of lymphatic tissue found in the throat, or pharynx. There are four different types of tonsils: palatine, pharyngeal (commonly referred to as the adenoid), lingual and tubal. Together these four types of tonsils make up what is called Waldeyer’s ring.

What is the histology of the tonsil follicle?

Histology. The tonsillar crypts (except the pharyngeal tonsil) will penetrate from the surface, almost down to the very center of the tonsil follicle. The luminal surfaces of the tonsils are coated in non-keratinising stratified squamous epithelium, which is the same tissue of the surrounding oropharynx.

Where does the innervation of the lingual tonsil come from?

Innervation is from the glossopharyngeal nerve. Lymphatic fluid from the lingual tonsil drains into the jugulodigastric and deep cervical lymph nodes. Fig 2 – The lingual and palatine tonsils. The pharyngeal tonsil refers to a collection of lymphoid tissue within the mucosa of the roof of the nasopharynx.

Why are the tonsils important to the immune system?

The tonsils are masses of lymphoid tissue and form an important part of our immune system located at the gateway of respiratory and digestive tract. They act as the first line of defense against ingested or inhaled pathogens.

What are the functions of the palatine tonsils?

Debris frequently lodges in the pits and causes inflammation, a condition called tonsillitis. The function of the palatine tonsils is thought to be associated with preventing infection in the respiratory and digestive tracts by producing antibodies that help kill infective agents.