tonsille

The tonsil, in French terms often referred to as the tonsille, is one of several lymphoid tissues that form Waldeyer's ring at the entrance to the oropharynx. The main tonsillar tissues are the palatine tonsils, the pharyngeal tonsil (adenoids), the lingual tonsils, and the tubal tonsils.

Anatomically, the palatine tonsils lie on either side of the oropharynx between the anterior and posterior tonsillar pillars. The pharyngeal tonsil is located high in the nasopharynx, the lingual tonsils at the base of the tongue, and the tubal tonsils near the opening of the auditory tube. Collectively, these tissues are a component of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue and play a role in the immune defense of the upper airway and digestive tract by sampling antigens and helping initiate immune responses, including the production of antibodies.

Developmentally, tonsillar tissue is prominent in childhood and often enlarges (hypertrophies) during this period. In many individuals, the tissue gradually decreases in size with age, though it may remain visible or functional into adulthood.

Clinically, tonsils can be involved in infection or obstruction. Acute tonsillitis presents with sore throat, fever, and tonsillar inflammation, while chronic tonsillitis involves recurrent symptoms. Enlarged tonsils can contribute to sleep-disordered breathing or obstructive symptoms. Complications include peritonsillar abscess and, less commonly, airway compromise. Treatment ranges from supportive care and targeted antibiotics for bacterial infections to surgical options such as tonsillectomy, often combined with adenoidectomy in children for recurrent infection or significant obstruction.

See also Waldeyer's ring for the broader ring of lymphoid tissue in the throat.