Suggest Remedy For White Dot On The Tonsils

Posted on Fri, 3 Apr 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 3 Apr 2015 Answered on

Thu, 23 Apr 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi,

I have a white dot the size of a pencil tip if not smaller in my throat, below my left tonsil close to the front of my mouth and not back of the throat. I noticed this white dot / spot 2 weeks ago, I have had history of tonsillitis since I was the age of 7. I am afraid this is early sign of cancer in throat, I read on internet that white spots is early sign of cancer in throat. I never smoked in my life and drink beer moderately. No swollen lymph nodes or lumps that O could find in my throat or neck

Answered by Dr. Noble Zachariah (48 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It's likely to be a tonsilolith

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome and thanks for your query.
I understand your concern.
It is likely to be tonsilolith and not cancer as you fear. It is chalky material. It would fall off in a couple of weeks.
It may fall off earlier if you touch it with a spatula.
Any ENT doctor can remove it if you are very worried.
Best wishes.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Noble Zachariah (7 minutes later)

I tried removing it but I had hard time doing so because of its location. How can I tell the difference between a tonsilolith and something else. These seems to be slightly raised.

Answered by Dr. Noble Zachariah (15 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Typical location and presentation

Detailed Answer:
The location and presentation are typical. If you can upload a picture, I can confirm it. I
If you go to an ENT doctor, it can be removed and that will leave your doubts and fears to rest.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar