The radiologic findings in synovial chondromatosis (chondrometaplasia) of the temporomandibular joint

Abstract

Synovial chondromatosis or chondrometaplasia is a rare disease in which foci of cartilage may develop in the synovial membrane, usually of the large diarthroidal joints. However, the temporomandibular joint may be affected, with less than 15 such cases documented. It is the purpose of this presentation to define the radiologic findings in synovial chondromatosis of the temporomandibular joint, not previously recorded, which allow for definitive diagnosis. These radiologic findings are: 1) widening of the joint space; 2) limitation of motion; 3) irregularity of joint surfaces; 4) presence of calcified loos bodies (cartilage); and 5) sclerosis of the glenoid fossa and mandibular condyle.