Localized Amyloidosis of Bilateral Palatine Tonsils Mimicking Tonsillolithiasis

Ear Nose Throat J. 2023 Jan 29:1455613231154057. doi: 10.1177/01455613231154057. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

A rare disease called localized tonsillar amyloidosis can cause serious problems with airway patency in severe cases. This was the case with an elderly man who experienced difficulty breathing and swallowing due to enlarged palatine tonsils. The physical and imaging findings suggested tonsillolithiasis, and the patient underwent bilateral tonsillectomy. The diagnosis of amyloidosis was confirmed with histopathological examination using Congo red staining. Surgical intervention and careful follow-up care can be effective in these cases, which generally have a good prognosis.

Keywords: dysphagia; head and neck; surgery; tonsillectomy.