PALATINE TONSILS: CURRENT EXPERIMENTAL STUDIES AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

The palatine tonsils, commonly referred to as tonsils, are paired lymphoid structures located in the oropharynx and play an essential role in mucosal and systemic immunity. They are a part of the Waldeyer’s ring, which also includes the pharyngeal tonsil, lingual tonsils, and tubal tonsils. Despite their relatively small size, the palatine tonsils contribute significantly to immune surveillance by being the first line of defense against inhaled or ingested pathogens. In recent decades, the importance of tonsillar tissue has gained attention not only in the context of recurrent infections but also in relation to autoimmune diseases, microbial colonization, and even oncological conditions. With the development of advanced laboratory methods, a surge of experimental research has been directed towards understanding the immunological, morphological, and molecular characteristics of the palatine tonsils. This article provides an overview of the anatomical and physiological aspects of the tonsils, highlights current research trends, and discusses modern treatment approaches.