keelklieren

Keelklieren, also known as tonsils, are two masses of lymphatic tissue located on either side of the back of the throat. They are part of the immune system and help the body fight off infections. Keelklieren are typically visible when a person opens their mouth wide and says "ah." They are covered in a mucous membrane and have a pitted or crypted surface.

In children, keelklieren play a significant role in developing immunity. They trap pathogens entering the body through the mouth and nose, allowing immune cells to recognize and neutralize them. As individuals mature, the importance of keelklieren in immune function generally decreases, and they may shrink.

However, keelklieren can become infected, leading to tonsillitis. Symptoms of tonsillitis include a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. In some cases, recurrent or severe infections may necessitate the surgical removal of the keelklieren, a procedure known as a tonsillectomy. While generally beneficial, their potential for infection makes them a site of medical concern.