The respiratory system - the tonsils Flashcards
1
Q
What are tonsils and describe there arrangement?
A
The tonsils are collections of lymphatic tissue located within the pharynx. They collectively form a ringed arrangement, known as Waldeyer’s ring:
- Pharyngeal tonsil
- Tubal tonsils (x2)
- Palatine tonsils (x2)
- Lingual tonsil
2
Q
Why are the tonsils classified as mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT)?
A
Contain T cells, B cells and macrophages. They have an important role in fighting infection – the first line of defence against pathogens entering through the nasopharynx or oropharynx.
