Questions and Answers
What are the tonsils?
Tonsils are masses of lymphoid tissue that are an important part of the immune system located at the gateway of the respiratory and digestive tracts.
Which of the following types of tonsils is located just posterior to the opening of the Eustachian tube?
What is tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis is the inflammation of the tonsils.
What is the most common bacterium causing tonsillitis?
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The tonsils' immune system function declines after puberty.
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Tonsillitis is most commonly seen in children aged ______.
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Which of the following is a symptom of tonsillitis?
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What complication can occur from chronic tonsillitis?
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Study Notes
Introduction to Tonsils
- Tonsils are lymphoid tissue masses essential for the immune system, located at the respiratory and digestive tract's entry points.
- They serve as the first defense against pathogens inhaled or ingested.
- Comprise four types arranged in a circular formation known as Waldeyer’s ring around the pharynx.
- Structure includes lymphoid follicles supported by connective tissue, with germinal centers densely packed with lymphocytes.
Types of Tonsils
- Palatine tonsils: Positioned between the palatoglossal arch (anterior) and the palatopharyngeal arch (posterior).
- Lingual tonsils: Small elevations located at the posterior part of the tongue, varying in size and shape.
- Tubal tonsils: Found just behind the Eustachian tube opening in the nasopharynx.
- Pharyngeal tonsils (adenoids): Located in the superior nasopharynx, attached to the sphenoid bone's periosteum by connective tissue.
Tonsillitis
- Definition: Inflammation of the tonsils, two tissue pads at the throat's back.
- Causes: Commonly caused by viruses, with Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus) being the most prevalent bacterial cause.
- Vulnerability: Tonsils are the immune system's frontline against pathogens, making them susceptible to infections, particularly in children. Their immune function decreases after puberty.
Clinical Picture of Tonsillitis
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Symptoms in Children (ages 5-15):
- Red, swollen tonsils
- White/yellow patches on tonsils
- Sore throat and difficulties in swallowing
- Fever and tender lymph nodes in the neck
- Scratchy or muffled voice, bad breath, stomachache, headache
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Symptoms in Young Children:
- Difficulty describing symptoms may lead to drooling and refusal to eat.
Complications of Tonsillitis
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Potential issues from chronic tonsillitis:
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Tonsillar cellulitis (deep tissue infection)
- Peritonsillar abscess (pus collection behind a tonsil).
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Risks with untreated streptococcal infections:
- Rheumatic fever: serious inflammation affecting heart, joints, nervous system, and skin.
- Complications from scarlet fever: characterized by a notable rash.
- Post streptococcal glomerulonephritis: kidney inflammation.
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Description
This quiz covers the anatomy and function of tonsils as part of the immune system. Understand the role of tonsils in protecting the respiratory and digestive tracts against pathogens. Ideal for students studying General Surgery.
