title: Referred otalgia induced by a large tonsillolith.
abstract: Herein, we report an unusual case of large tonsillolith presented with acute otalgia. Since the tonsils and tonsillar fossa are supplied by the glossopharyngeal nerve, any irritation or pain can be referred to the ear along the tympanic branch of the glossopharyngeal (Jacobson's) nerve. Also, it is worth re-emphasizing that normal otoscopy must be followed by inspection of the nasal cavities, oral cavity, and oropharynx, with particular note given to the floor of mouth, teeth, tongue, and tonsils because the identification of a causative etiology is necessary to successfully treat referred otalgia.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
authors.forename: Kyung Soo
authors.initials: KS
authors.lastname: Kim
keywords: Glossopharyngeal Nerve; Referred Otalgia; Tonsillolith