From the Research
Tonsillar stones (tonsilloliths) appear as small, white or yellowish, hard deposits embedded within the crypts or crevices of the tonsils, typically ranging in size from 1-10 mm and may be visible during oral examination when using a light source and tongue depressor to expose the tonsillar area. On physical examination, these calcified concretions often have an irregular surface and may be single or multiple. When palpated with a cotton swab, they feel firm and may dislodge with gentle pressure. Tonsillar stones are frequently associated with halitosis (bad breath), and patients may report a foreign body sensation, mild discomfort, or irritation in the throat. The surrounding tonsillar tissue may appear normal or show signs of mild inflammation. These stones form when food particles, bacteria, dead cells, and mucus accumulate in the tonsillar crypts and gradually calcify over time. Chronic tonsillitis or recurrent throat infections may predispose individuals to developing these concretions. During examination, it's essential to differentiate tonsillar stones from other conditions such as tonsillar exudates seen in acute tonsillitis or streptococcal pharyngitis, as noted in studies such as 1.
Some key characteristics of tonsillar stones include:
- Small, white or yellowish deposits
- Embedded within the crypts or crevices of the tonsils
- Typically range in size from 1-10 mm
- May be visible during oral examination with a light source and tongue depressor
- Often have an irregular surface and may be single or multiple
- Feel firm when palpated with a cotton swab and may dislodge with gentle pressure
- Frequently associated with halitosis and may cause a foreign body sensation, mild discomfort, or irritation in the throat, as mentioned in 2.
It's crucial to consider the potential impact of tonsillar stones on patient quality of life, including symptoms such as bad breath, discomfort, and irritation, and to prioritize management strategies that minimize morbidity and mortality, as discussed in 1.