The tonsils are made up of lymphoid tissue and help fight against infections. However, in some people, particularly in children with larger tonsils, these glands can perform less efficiently and cause frequent throat and ear infections or obstruct breathing. In these cases, surgical removal of the tonsils, a tonsillectomy, is beneficial.

Review Date: 12/4/2001 12:00:00 AM Reviewed By:A.D.A.M. Medical Illustration Team

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