UNMASKING THE HIDDEN GIANT: A RARE CASE OF A GIANT TONSILLOLITH MIMICKING CHRONIC TONSILLITIS

Abstract

Tonsilloliths, or tonsil stones, are calcified deposits that develop within the crypts of the palatine tonsils. While typically small and asymptomatic, the occurrence of giant tonsilloliths is exceptionally rare, with limited cases documented in the literature. We present the case of a 30-year-old woman with a nine-year history of recurrent, unresolved tonsillitis, who was found to have a giant tonsillolith in the right palatine tonsil. Diagnosis was confirmed via computed tomography (CT), revealing a large, lobulated, hyperdense lesion. The tonsillolith was surgically excised, leading to significant symptomatic relief. This case highlights the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for giant tonsilloliths in patients with chronic tonsillar symptoms and underscores the role of imaging and timely surgical intervention in their management.