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Journals / Journal of Basic and Clinical Health Sciences / 2026 / Volume: 10 Issue: 1

Nasopharyngeal Tonsillolith Mimicking Temporomandibular Joint Pathology: An Incidental Finding Identified on Panoramic Radiography

Melih Özdede(DOKUZ EYLUL UNIVERSITY)0000-0002-8783-802X
Emre Koyuncu(DOKUZ EYLUL UNIVERSITY, FACULTY OF DENTISTRY)0009-0007-0114-577X
Günnur İlhan(DOKUZ EYLUL UNIVERSITY)0009-0001-9587-9059
Fatma Akkoca(DOKUZ EYLUL UNIVERSITY)0000-0002-4522-656X
Pages
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Publication Date
2026-01-31
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AI Summary & Key Takeaways

AI Insight
⚡ TL;DR(Too Long; Didn't Read)

This case illustrates the importance of considering NTs in the differential diagnosis of TMJ-area radiopacities and highlights CBCT’s role in precise localization.

📌 3 Key Takeaways

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Objective & Hypothesis:Purpose: To report a rare case of a nasopharyngeal tonsillolith (NT) incidentally detected on panoramic radiography, mimicking a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) lesion, and to emphasize the diagnostic value of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).
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Key Findings & Data:Case Report: A 58-year-old woman presented with intermittent TMJ pain.
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Conclusion & Impact:This case illustrates the importance of considering NTs in the differential diagnosis of TMJ-area radiopacities and highlights CBCT’s role in precise localization.
🔬Design:Case Report
📍Scope:Comprehensive Sample
⚙️Variables:Nasopharynx · Tonsillolithiasis · Panoramic Radiograph

Abstract

Purpose: To report a rare case of a nasopharyngeal tonsillolith (NT) incidentally detected on panoramic radiography, mimicking a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) lesion, and to emphasize the diagnostic value of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Case Report: A 58-year-old woman presented with intermittent TMJ pain. A panoramic radiograph revealed a well-defined radiopacity over the left TMJ region. CBCT imaging localized the lesion to the posterosuperior nasopharynx. Based on its location and radiodensity, it was diagnosed as a nasopharyngeal tonsillolith. This prevented misdiagnosis and unnecessary interventions. Conclusion: Nasopharyngeal tonsilloliths are rarely seen on panoramic images and may simulate TMJ calcifications due to projectional overlap. This case illustrates the importance of considering NTs in the differential diagnosis of TMJ-area radiopacities and highlights CBCT’s role in precise localization.

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Cite This Article

Özdede, M., Koyuncu, E., İlhan, G., Akkoca, F., *, E. K. (2026). Nasopharyngeal Tonsillolith Mimicking Temporomandibular Joint Pathology: An Incidental Finding Identified on Panoramic Radiography. Journal of Basic and Clinical Health Sciences, Volume: 10 Issue: 1. https://doi.org/10.30621/jbachs.1750911

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