Final answer:
The pharyngeal tonsil, also called the adenoid, is located at the back of the throat and helps develop immunity to oral pathogens. It contains lymphocytes and ciliated epithelium that trap and destroy invading pathogens. Tonsils, including the palatine tonsils, can be removed in children with recurrent throat infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
The tonsils are lymphoid nodules located along the inner surface of the pharynx and are important in developing immunity to oral pathogens. There are different types of tonsils, one of which is the pharyngeal tonsil located at the back of the throat. It is sometimes referred to as the adenoid when swollen.
The pharyngeal tonsil contains a rich supply of lymphocytes and is covered with ciliated epithelium that traps and destroys invading pathogens that enter during inhalation. Its major function is to help recognize, destroy, and develop immunity to common environmental pathogens.
Tonsils also include the palatine tonsils on either side of the throat, which can be removed in children with recurring throat infections.