Microanatomy Lingual tonsils are covered externally by
stratified squamous epithelium (nonkeratinized) that invaginates inward forming
tonsillar crypts. Beneath the epithelium is a layer of lymphoid nodules containing lymphocytes.
Mucous glands located at the root of the tongue are drained through several ducts into the crypts of the lingual tonsils. Secretions of these mucous glands keep the crypts clean and free of any debris.
Blood supply Lingual tonsils are located on posterior aspect of tongue which is supplied through: •
Lingual artery, branch of
external carotid artery •
Tonsillar artery • Ascending and descending
palatine arteries • Ascending pharyngeal branch of external carotid artery
Nerve supply Lingual tonsils are innervated by tonsillar nerves from the tonsilar plexus, formed by the glossopharyngeal and vagus nerves. ==Function==