CT density of the TMJ disk: correlation with histologic observations of hyalinization, metaplastic cartilage, and calcification in autopsy specimens.
The attenuation number of the TMJ disk was measured in direct sagittal computerized tomograms (CTs) of eight fresh TMJ autopsy specimens. The CT attenuation number was correlated to histologic observations of hyalinization, calcification, and cartilaginous metaplasia of the disk. Correlations were found between high CT attenuation numbers and the presence of hyalinization, calcification, and foci of cartilaginous metaplasia in the disks. The results suggest that the high CT attenuation number of a disk might be associated with hyalinization, calcification, and metaplastic cartilage formation.
Department of Stomatology and Interdisciplinary Sciences, State University of New York, School of Dental Medicine, Buffalo.
M E
ME
Paz
L C
LC
Carter
P L
PL
Westesson
R W
RW
Katzberg
R
R
Tallents
J D
JD
Subtelny
B
B
Goldin
D000368:Aged; D002114:Calcinosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology; D002357:Cartilage Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology; D002358:Cartilage, Articular / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology*; D006801:Humans; D006818:Hyalin / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology; D008679:Metaplasia; D011857:Radiographic Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted; D013705:Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed