Tonsilloliths, also known as amygdaloliths and tonsil stones, are white to yellowish pea-sized calcified collections of mucus, organic debris, and anaerobic bacteria (including Eubacterium, Fusobacterium, Porphyromonas, and Prevotella) found on the tonsil crypts. Tonsilloliths are more common in adults than in children, with an incidence rate of 7% in the general population.
They are typically asymptomatic. When symptoms do present, patients may complain of halitosis, dysphagia, globus sensation, cough, otalgia, dysgeusia, and pharyngitis. Examination may reveal tonsillar exudates and enlargement.
Tonsillolith
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Synopsis
Codes
ICD10CM:
J35.8 – Other chronic diseases of tonsils and adenoids
SNOMEDCT:
6461009 – Amygdalolith
J35.8 – Other chronic diseases of tonsils and adenoids
SNOMEDCT:
6461009 – Amygdalolith
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Last Reviewed:03/04/2018
Last Updated:03/26/2018
Last Updated:03/26/2018
Tonsillolith