Synovial chondromatosis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a rare disease characterized
by cartilaginous metaplasia of the mesenchymal remnants of the synovial membrane with
formation of loose cartilaginous nodules. It is prevalent in middle-aged women and
the main clinical characteristics are swelling, pain, and limited jaw movements. Diagnosis
is difficult, especially in the early stages, because the signs and symptoms are like
other TMJ diseases such as internal derangements and tumors. Imaging exams are fundamental
in differential diagnosis for detection of synovitis and free cartilaginous bodies.
Magnetic resonance imaging with a gadolinium contrast would be of particular interest
for this purpose. Treatment involves the removal of the cartilaginous nodules and
synovectomy. It can be performed by arthroscopy or arthrotomy depending on the size
of the lesion, the number of corpuscles, and the need for auxiliary surgical procedures.
Final diagnosis is anatomopathologic. Postoperative follow-up is necessary due to
the risk of recurrence.
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: September 14, 2022
Accepted:
September 3,
2022
Received in revised form:
September 1,
2022
Received:
June 23,
2022
Identification
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© 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
