LARYNGEAL TONSIL Meaning and
Definition
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The laryngeal tonsil, also known as the adenoid or pharyngeal tonsil, is a mass of lymphoid tissue located in the upper part of the throat, specifically in the posterior wall of the nasopharynx. It is one of the three major tonsil structures found in the human body, the others being the palatine tonsils and the lingual tonsils.
The laryngeal tonsil plays a crucial role in the immune system's defense against infections. It serves as a first line of defense by trapping and filtering out bacteria, viruses, and other foreign particles that enter the body through the nose and mouth. The tonsil contains clusters of lymphocytes and immune cells, which actively ward off harmful pathogens and help to produce antibodies that contribute to the body's immune response.
However, if the laryngeal tonsil becomes frequently or excessively infected, it can lead to various health issues. Enlargement or chronic inflammation of the laryngeal tonsil can result in symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, snoring, sleep apnea, recurrent ear infections, and a persistent sore throat. In severe cases, the tonsil may need to be removed through a surgical procedure known as adenoidectomy.
The laryngeal tonsil is an important component of the immune system, providing defense against upper respiratory infections. Understanding its structure and function is crucial in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the tonsils and ensuring overall health and well-being.
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An irregular collection of lymphoid tissue on the ventricular band, or false vocal cord, on either side, noduli lymphatici laryngei.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LARYNGEAL TONSIL
- laryngeal tonsih
- laryngeal tonsin
- laryngeal tonsim
- laryngealtwonsil
- laryngealtoonsil
- l aryngeal tonsil
- la ryngeal tonsil
- lar yngeal tonsil
- lary ngeal tonsil
- laryn geal tonsil
- laryng eal tonsil
- larynge al tonsil
- laryngea l tonsil
- laryngeal t onsil
- laryngeal to nsil
- laryngeal ton sil
- laryngeal tons il
- laryngeal tonsi l
Etymology of LARYNGEAL TONSIL
The word "laryngeal" is derived from the Late Latin "laryngeus", which means "related to the larynx". The term "larynx" comes from the Ancient Greek word "larunx", which refers to the organ of the voice.
The word "tonsil" originates from the Latin word "tonsilla", which means "a lump" or "a small round mass". It is a diminutive of "tondus", which translates to "round" or "circular".
Therefore, the etymology of "laryngeal tonsil" shows that "laryngeal" is related to the larynx, while "tonsil" refers to a small round mass. Combining both words, "laryngeal tonsil" indicates a small round mass located near or related to the larynx.
