The tonsils are two oval-shaped pads in the back of the mouth. The tonsils are part of the body's germ-fighting immune system.
Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission.
Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press.
Mayo Clinic researchers drive discoveries that improve detection, diagnosis and treatment. Your quick message to them means so much.