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Palatine Tonsils Between Arches — FRCA Primary MCQ

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EasyAnatomyPalatine Tonsils Between ArchesFRCA Primary

Regarding the anatomy of the upper airway the palatine tonsils are located between the:

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Correct answer: A — Palatoglossal and palatopharyngeal arches (anterior and posterior pillars of the fauces)

The palatine tonsils lie in the tonsillar fossa between the palatoglossal arch (anterior pillar) and palatopharyngeal arch (posterior pillar). They are part of Waldeyer's ring of lymphoid tissue (with the pharyngeal tonsil / tubal tonsils / and lingual tonsil). The glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX) lies deep to the tonsillar bed — vulnerable during tonsillectomy.

Reference: RCoA 2021 Primary FRCA Curriculum