Tonsillitis refers to the inflammation of the tonsils. It typically occurs as an inflammatory response to an infection. As such, tonsillitis itself is not contagious, but the pathogen responsible for ...

The tonsils are an integral part of the body’s immune function. They are the body’s first defense mechanism against germs and viruses that enter the body through your mouth, per Mayo Clinic.

Chronic tonsillitis is an ongoing infection of the tonsils. If you have chronic tonsillitis, you may need to have your tonsils removed. Share on Pinterest Edwin Tan/Getty Images Tonsillitis is an ...

Tonsillitis and strep throat are similar illnesses that affect the inside of the throat and surrounding tissue. Differences include how they affect the tonsils and surrounding areas. Because ...