Normal and Insufficient Tonsils: A microscopic anatomical study

Abstract

A microscopic anatomical study was made of the normal tonsillar function, with special reference to the formation of reaction centres and the liberation and drainage of anti-substances. Mention is made of the significance of the normal, loose tonsillar tissue for rapid and easy internal drainage of lymphocytes to the efferent lymph pathways. In the case of infection of imperfectly structured tonsillar parts, containing excessive connective tissue, dense infiltrates of lymphocytes are formed around the crypts. Focal infection may result from this. Repeated serious infection in young children, with still insufficient immunity, may give rise to insufficiency of the tonsils. The cavities consequently formed, with necrotic contents, are the cause of subsequent recurrent tonsillitis.