Final answer:
Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (T & A) are procedures for removing the tonsils and adenoids, which are part of the immune system. They filter out pathogens and aid in developing immunity but may be removed if they cause recurring infections or breathing difficulties. These lymphoid tissues are known to regress over time.
Step-by-step explanation:
Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (T & A) refer to the surgical removal of the tonsils and adenoids. Tonsils are lymphoid nodules located along the inner surface of the pharynx and are important in developing immunity to oral pathogens. They comprise the palatine tonsils on either side of the throat and the pharyngeal tonsil, commonly known as the adenoid when swollen, located at the back of the throat. The function of the tonsils is to help the body recognize, destroy, and develop immunity to common environmental pathogens. The tonsils have deep tonsillar crypts which trap and expose pathogens to immune cells.
The adenoid, or pharyngeal tonsil, is found at the superior portion of the nasopharynx. It contains a rich supply of lymphocytes and is critical in trapping and destroying invading pathogens during inhalation. The adenoid tends to regress with age, and in some cases, may disappear entirely. Conditions such as recurring throat infections and breathing or swallowing difficulties due to swelling, often lead to the recommendation of a T & A procedure.
During a typical doctor's visit, an inspection of the oral cavity and pharynx is performed which can reveal signs of an active immune response such as in tonsillitis. In these cases, a T & A might be considered to alleviate the issues caused by enlarged lymphoid tissue.