Cell fractionation and cytological analysis of human lymphatic cells from tonsil and blood

Theoretical and clinical aspects of the tonsillar function

A general review of the state of the art in tonsillar function research is given. A proliferation of B lymphocytes, evoked by antigens and/or polyclonal activators, occurs in the tonsil. Such a process, i.e. the supply of B cells to the organism facilitating a number of immune reactions, is to be considered the main function of the tonsil. The formation of antibodies must be regarded as a by-effect caused by an intratonsillar defence mechanism; it is helpful in safeguarding the structural and functional integrity of the organ. A model of the tonsil on the basis of cybernetics is derived from the results obtained and from the histological structure of the organ. Tonsillar involution is characterized by a decline in B cell proliferation, eventually leading to a weakening of the intratonsillar defence mechanism. Genetic disposition and defective functioning of the intratonsillar defence mechanism are discussed as pathogenetic factors in tonsillitis.

Factors of tonsillar involution: age-dependent changes in B-cell activation and Langerhans' cell density

Incorporation of radioactive thymidine as well as morphological and autoradiographical investigations performed with isolated B and T lymphocytes of the tonsil show that first of all B cells are activated or proliferating. The combination of autoradiography with cytochemistry was the only means of detecting a few activated T cells. With increasing age the number of activated B cells decreases. A reduced number of Langerhans' cells acting as antigen receptors in the epithelium of the crypt is assumed to be one cause of this phenomenon. Tonsillar involution originates from both a decline in the antigen receptors and in the depletion of B-cell activation. Malfunctions in these processes give rises to pathogenic factors in chronic tonsillitis.