What Is the Lymphatic System?
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
7. Gross Anatomy - Tonsils
Tonsils are a collection of lymph node tissue located under the epithelial lining of the pharyngeal and oral region. On the sides of the oropharynx are the palatine tonsils, the roof of the nasopharynx are pharyngeal tonsils, and base of the posterior surface of the tongue are lingual tonsils.
Since these tonsils are located so closely to the oropharyngeal airways, any swelling of these tonsils lead to difficulty with breathing. The presence of macrophages and lymphocytes in these tissues help protect the airways against substances and pathogens that may enter through the airway or oral cavity.
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