Tonsillitis The tonsils are found at the back of the mouth above the entrance to the throat. They can often become inflamed and swollen in a condition called tonsillitis, a common condition especially widespread among young children. It is most often caused by infection from a streptococcal or staphylococcal bacteria, but may occur due to infection from other bacteria. The tonsils become swollen with fluid, which is mostly made up of the bacteria cells, and often has a white crust that forms over the tissue. Often the tonsils will need to be removed in a simple operation to prevent the infection spreading.

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