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Palatine tonsil

Synonym(s)

  • faucial tonsil
  • tonsil
  • tonsilla palatina
  • tonsillar

Definition(s)

A round-to-oval mass of lymphoid tissue embedded in the lateral wall of the pharynx situated on each side of the fauces, between the anterior and posterior pillars of the soft palate.

Definition from: MeSH via Unified Medical Language SystemThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. at the National Library of Medicine

Either of a pair of prominent masses of lymphoid tissue that lie one on each side of the throat between the anterior and posterior pillars of the fauces and are composed of lymph follicles grouped around one or more deep crypts and except for the exposed surface which is covered only by epithelium are surrounded by diffuse lymphoid tissue in a fibrous capsule.

Definition from: Merriam-Webster's Medical DictionaryThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. by Merriam-Webster Inc.

See also Understanding Medical Terminology.

 
Published: February 25, 2013