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Where Are the Tonsils Located?

My daughter is scheduled to have a tonsillectomy next week. Where exactly are the tonsils located in the throat?
John

The tonsils are two small, rounded masses of glandular tissue located on either side of the throat. The tonsils are part of the lymphoid system, and produce infection-fighting antibodies against bacteria and viruses entering through the throat. You can usually see the tonsils by looking into your child's throat using a flashlight.

For more information, check out these articles:
Tonsillitis
Are Children With No Tonsils More Susceptible to Infections?

Reviewed by: Neil Izenberg, MD

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