My son has a small hole on the wall of his mouth that releases stones. What can it be?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 8 year old son has a small hole in the back wall of his mouth. He has seen a number of GPs and consultants. None of them know what it is or can explain it. They are not going to continue to review it as they say it is not a problem. I would like to know how what it is and if anything should be done. It appeared two years ago. He was not born with it. It occasionally seals over and looks a bit like a clear blister, and releases tonsil stones. Then it becomes a hole again. It is not a crevice. It is a hole in the back wall. I would really appreciate some advice. It is really disturbing when nobody knows what it is and then decide to stop reviewing it. Thank you in advance.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

From your description, the hole seems to release tonsil stones. In that case, it must be a tonsillar crypt. The hole is in the anterior pillar. Usually, tonsillar crypts open into the oropharynx area behind the pillar and not through the pillar. And, I can see enlarged tonsils, almost grade 3 on both sides. If your son is producing tonsil stones repeatedly, it is advisable to get the tonsils removed. That should close the crypt and permanently remove the hole also. Enlarged tonsils which produce tonsil stones are an indication to get a tonsillectomy surgery done. Do revert back for any further support. I will be happy to help you.