Medical Name for Tonsil Stones
The medical term for tonsil stones is "tonsilloliths" (also referred to as "tonsil calculi"). 1, 2, 3, 4
Definition and Pathophysiology
Tonsilloliths are calcified accumulations of cellular debris, bacteria, and microorganisms that form within the crypts of the palatine tonsils. 1, 2, 3
These calcifications are composed of calcium salts, either alone or in combination with other mineral salts, that mineralize within the crevices of tonsillar tissue. 1, 4
The formation occurs in the cryptic and reticulated epithelium of the tonsils, which contains specialized channels that can trap debris and allow bacterial aggregation. 5, 3
Clinical Presentation
The most prominent symptoms include halitosis (bad breath), foreign body sensation in the throat, sore throat, painful swallowing, and cough. 1, 3
Most tonsilloliths are small and asymptomatic, representing common clinical findings that require no intervention. 3
Large tonsilloliths are rare, with only occasional case reports in the literature documenting stones measuring 2.5-3.1 cm. 2, 4
Management Approach
Small tonsilloliths should be managed expectantly with watchful waiting, as they typically pass on their own. 3
Surgical intervention (tonsillectomy) is rarely required and should be reserved only for cases where stones become too large to pass spontaneously or cause significant symptoms. 3
The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery guidelines note that evidence supporting tonsillectomy for tonsilloliths and halitosis is limited and generally of lesser quality, making shared decision-making with patients essential. 5
Important Clinical Caveat
- While tonsilloliths are the standard term, similar calcifications can occur in adenoid tissue (termed "adenoliths"), though this is extremely rare and should be considered in patients with recurrent upper respiratory symptoms despite normal palatine tonsils. 6