The masses of lymphatic tissue located in the pharynx are primarily known as the tonsils. These include the palatine tonsils, pharyngeal tonsils (often referred to as adenoids), and lingual tonsils.
The palatine tonsils are the most commonly recognized and are located on either side of the back of the throat. They play a crucial role in the immune response, particularly in filtering bacteria and viruses that enter the body through the mouth and nose.
The pharyngeal tonsil, or adenoid, is located at the top of the throat, behind the nose. Like the palatine tonsils, it helps to trap pathogens and also plays a role in the immune system, especially in children.
Lingual tonsils, found at the base of the tongue, are also part of the lymphatic tissue in the pharynx. Though they are less prominent than the palatine and pharyngeal tonsils, they contribute to the body’s defense by producing antibodies and activating immune responses.
Overall, these lymphatic tissues act as the first line of defense against infections, working by activating immune cells to combat pathogens that attempt to enter the body through the oral and nasal cavities.