Synovial Chondromatosis of the Temporomandibular Joint: An Asymptomatic Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Synovial chondromatosis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a rare lesion characterized by the presence of loose bodies in the glenoid fossa. Swelling, unilateral pain, occlusal changes, clicking, crepitation, deviation, and limited mandibular function are the most common characteristics, although this combination is not always apparent. Radiopacities of the TMJ should be thoroughly investigated as some signals and symptoms may be not present or combined, taking months or even years to confirm a diagnosis. A case report is presented here with a brief literature review, where surgical removal was the therapy of choice, calling attention to the absence of symptoms and some signals, which may mislead final diagnosis.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Denis Pimenta e Souza

Dr. Denis Pimenta e Souza is a post graduate student in the oral and maxillofacial program, School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, and an oral and maxillofacial surgery assistant professor in the Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital Santa Paula, São Paulo, Brazil.

Caio Cesar de Souza Loureiro

Dr. Caio Cesar de Souza Loureiro is an oral and maxillofacial resident, in the Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital Santa Paula, São Paulo, Brazil.

Paula Felix Falchet

Dr. Paula Felix Falchet is an oral and maxillofacial surgery assistant professor, Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital Santa Paula, São Paulo, Brazil.

Luiz Fernando Lobo Leandro

Dr. Luis Fernando Lobo Leandro is chief of the Section of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Hospital Santa Paula, São Paulo, Brazil.

Ricardo Raitz

Dr. Ricardo Raitz is a professor of the Biodentistry post graduate (M.Sc.) program of Ibirapuera University, São Paulo, Brazil; professor and chair of General Pathology at São Caetano do Sul University, São Paulo, Brazil.