Osteoblastoma of the temporal articular tubercle misdiagnosed as a temporomandibular joint disorder. Issue 5 (May 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Emanuelsson, J.; Allen, C.M.; Rydin, K.; Sjöström, M.
• Is Part Of: International journal of oral & maxillofacial surgery. Volume 46:Issue 5(2017:May)
• Page Start: 610
• Page End: 613
• Publication Date: 2017-05
• Subjects: dentistry -- osteoblastoma -- temporomandibular disorders; Mouth -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Maxilla -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Dentistry -- Periodicals; Dentistry, Operative; Oral Surgical Procedures; Surgery, Oral; Dentistry; Maxilla -- Surgery; Mouth -- Surgery; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 617.52059
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijom.2016.12.005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0901-5027

Abstract

Abstract: The case of a 17-year-old female with a benign osteoblastoma in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is reported. The patient had a 2.5-year history of reduced mouth opening accompanied by tenderness and swelling in the left TMJ. Initial treatment included stabilization of the occlusion with a splint, jaw exercises, and analgesics. At first the patient's symptoms decreased, but they then increased 18 months later, prompting a cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) evaluation of the joint. The radiographic findings showed a somewhat ill-defined, radiolucent, expansile lesion containing small scattered calcifications located in the temporal articular tubercle. The lesion was removed under general anaesthesia and sent for histopathological examination. At the 12-month follow-up, the patient had normal TMJ function without clinical symptoms. CBCT examination showed a small recurrence of 3 mm. Another 12 months later, CBCT showed a 1-mm increase in the recurrence. Her function was normal, with slight tenderness lateral to the left TMJ. The decision from a multidisciplinary meeting was further annual follow-up. The present case illustrates the importance of initial radiographic examination together with clinical examination in patients with TMJ dysfunction.