Peritonsillolith

Abstract

Peritonsillolith appears to be an unknown entity. Two cases of lithiasis in the peritonsillar region following spontaneous rupture of peritonsillar abscesses have been reported. The authors have speculated concerning the cause of stone formation in the peritonsillar region, which has been designated "peritonsillolith," on the basis of lithiasis in other regions of the body, such as gallbladder, kidneys, and salivary glands. Peritonsilloliths most likely form as a result of incomplete evacuation of pus, the dead bacteria and the pus cells providing the nidus for their formation. The salts of these stones are undoubtedly derived from the inflammatory exudates and saliva. © 1975.