Final answer:
The inflamed pharyngeal tonsils are referred to as adenoids, and are a crucial part of the immune system particularly during childhood, but can regress as one ages.
Step-by-step explanation:
The pharyngeal tonsil is located in the nasopharynx, which is the upper part of the pharynx that lies behind the nasal cavity. The pharyngeal tonsils are an important component of the body's immune system, containing a rich supply of lymphocytes. They are covered with ciliated epithelium that helps trap invading pathogens entering through inhalation. These tonsils are particularly large during childhood and play a crucial role in developing immunity but often regress and can disappear in adulthood. When these tonsils become inflamed due to infection or irritation, they swell up and are referred to as adenoids. This is a common condition in children and can be associated with ear infections due to the close proximity to the auditory tubes.
When inflamed, the pharyngeal tonsils are also known as adenoids. The pharyngeal tonsils are located at the top of the nasopharynx and are responsible for trapping and destroying invading pathogens. They contain lymphoid tissue and play a role in developing immunity to oral pathogens.