Introduction:

Most of calcifications in head and neck region are asymptomatic and are usually detected as incidental findings in imaging studies. Calcifications have previously been reported in the torus tubarius, however, there are no reports of the incidental finding of a large, asymptomatic calcification located in the torus tubarius that include an 11-years follow-up.

Objective:

The purpose of the present article is to report the incidental finding in a panoramic radiography, of a large calcification at the previously described location and discuss its presumptive diagnoses.

Case presentation:

A 43-year-old female patient, with neither personal medical history nor relevant family history attended a private dental clinic, for evaluation prior to the start of a comprehensive dental treatment. A large, asymptomatic calcification in the auditory tube, specifically in thetorus tubarius, was found as incidental finding in a panoramic radiography. The approach for its differential diagnosis decision making is shown. Based on imaging and clinical behavior, it is possible that this lesion corresponds to a tonsilolith, or the coalescence of several tonsiloliths formed in the torus tubarius. No surgical treatment was carried out. A 11-yearsclinical an imaging follow-up has been performed instead. Considering the evolution of this case, it is expected that this lesion will remain stable, however, the status of the patient must be followed-up to assess its clinical and radiographic characteristics.

Conclusions:

Panoramic radiograph allows clinicians to observe the superimposition of anatomical structures which are external to the maxillofacial territory. Therefore, it is essential that dental radiologists have an appropriate knowledge of the territory being evaluated.

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