What is the primary characteristic of tonsillitis?

The primary characteristic of tonsillitis is the inflammation of the tonsils and pharynx. Tonsillitis typically occurs as a result of viral or bacterial infections, leading to swelling, redness, and discomfort in the tonsils, which are located at the back of the throat, as well as in the adjacent pharyngeal tissues. This condition often presents with symptoms such as a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and sometimes fever, all of which stem directly from the inflammation in these areas. The involvement of both the tonsils and the pharynx is a key feature that helps distinguish tonsillitis from other conditions that affect different regions of the throat or other organs in the abdomen or respiratory system.