Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 17, 2026
Isolation of Tonsillar Mononuclear Cells to Study Ex Vivo Innate Immune Responses in a Human Mucosal Lymphoid Tissue
Published on: June 14, 2020
Lingual tonsil: clinically applicable macroscopic anatomical classification system
R Costello1, V Prabhu2, H Whittet2
1ENT Department, Singleton Hospital, Swansea, UK.
Objective:
To classify the adult lingual tonsil according to the macroscopic appearance.
Study Design:
Prospective study.
Level Of Evidence:
Four.
Methods:
Lingual tonsils were classified according to their appearance and relationship to surrounding structures. This was possible following serial views of lingual tonsils. The classification was named 'Swansea classification for lingual tonsil', representing the place of origin. The classification was then discussed with fellow clinicians. Independent professional observers graded lingual tonsil pictures. Intra-observer agreements were measured to validate the classification.
Results:
A total of 22 professional observers went through a set of six pictures of three different grades of lingual tonsil. The pictures were then graded for validation. The intra-observer agreement was 0.81, confirming good agreement.
Conclusion:
Swansea classification for lingual tonsil is reliable and reproducible. This classification should be routinely used during ENT examination, enabling accurate documentation and providing opportunities for future research and audit of practice.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Anatomical Terminology
01:20Pharynx
Nasopharynx
The nasopharynx, bordered by the conchae of the nasal cavity, serves exclusively as an air conduit. In its superior region, the pharyngeal tonsils or adenoids are located. These tonsils are clusters of lymphoid reticular tissue akin to a lymph node. The precise...
01:30Tonsillitis I: Introduction
Etiology
Three primary contributing factors have been identified.
01:01Tongue
Anatomical Position in the Oral Cavity
The tongue is located within the oral cavity, also known as the mouth. It is attached to the floor of the mouth by a fold of mucous membrane called the...
01:18Lymphoid Cells and Tissues
Lymphoid cells consist of various types of immune system cells. These include B and T lymphocytes, which are responsible for producing antibodies and killing infected cells, respectively. Dendritic cells act as messengers between the innate and adaptive...
01:26Assessment of the Mouth
Mouth Inspection
The inspection begins with visually examining the mouth for symmetry, color, and size.