Description: Lymphoid aggregates appear as small, slightly elevated nodules that may be normal colored or more red than the surrounding mucosa. Those illustrated here are in the soft palate. They may be found anywhere in the mucosa but are especially common where the mouth meets the throat, including the base of the tongue. This lymphoid rich area has been called Waldeyer's ring. When they occupy the same area as the foliate papillae, the papillae may take on a more nodular appearance. In the tongue they have been referred to as lingual tonsils.
Etiology: They represent a variation of normal in which lymphoid tissue is found in ectopic locations.
Treatment: None required.
Prognosis: Good. They may enlarge or regress in tune with oral or upper respiratory infections.
Differential diagnosis: Foliate papillae are often mistakenly identified as lingual tonsils. Although papillae and lymphoid aggregates may occupy the same area, they are different entities.