Reliable guideline for children's health
Tonsils are important immune organs during childhood, located in the throat and part of the Waldeyer's ring. They can produce various immunoglobulins and contain T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, and phagocytes, participating in both humoral and cellular immunity.
What Functions Do Children's Tonsils Have?
Immune Function
Newborns acquire antibodies from their mothers through the placenta, but these antibodies gradually disappear within 3 to 6 months after birth. Children's own antibody formation process is completed around the age of four. Before this, tonsils respond to antigenic stimulation, leading to lymphoid follicle proliferation and causing tonsil hypertrophy, which is a normal compensatory function. Even if the hypertrophy affects breathing or swallowing, their function should be preserved as much as possible, unless the symptoms are severe.
Phagocytic Function
Tonsils contain two types of macrophages: mononuclear macrophages and dendritic cells, which can phagocytize foreign antigens and help clear infections.
Neuroreflex Function
Tonsils are interconnected with the immune system and the nervous system, capable of transmitting information through nerves and coordinating immune responses.
Endocrine Influence
Tonsils are closely related to the thyroid gland. Inflamed tonsils may affect the thyroid, causing thyroid swelling and hyperthyroidism. Tonsils may also regulate calcium ion and carbohydrate metabolism.
Digestive Function
Tonsils play a role in the digestive process by producing monocytes that phagocytize bacteria and secrete enzymes, as well as secreting mucus to aid in the digestion of food residues.
Children's tonsils play multiple roles in the immune system, enhancing immunity, and participating in digestion and endocrine regulation. Although tonsil hypertrophy may require surgical intervention in certain cases, they generally play a crucial protective role in children's healthy development. Understanding the multifunctionality of tonsils is essential for scientifically managing related health issues.
Reference: Inoue T, Sugiyama H, Hiki Y, et al. Differential expression of glycogenes in tonsillar B-lymphocytes in association with proteinuria and renal dysfunction in IgA nephropathy. Clin Immunol. 2010, 136(3):447-455.
