Microscopic changes in the retrodiscal tissues of painful temporomandibular joints.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain and histological changes in TMJs with disc displacement.


METHODS
Samples from capsules and posterior disc attachments from 27 TMJ pain patients who underwent surgery were compared with samples from seven asymptomatic persons.


RESULTS
On logistic regression analysis, retrodiscal tissues from the painful joints demonstrated a significantly higher density of fibroblasts, presence of narrowed and obliterated arterial lumens, and a significantly lower distribution of elastic fibers.


CONCLUSIONS
The results indicate that there is a difference between painful and asymptomatic joints at the microscopic level.
Pereira
F J
FJ
Department of Stomatognathic Physiology, Centre for Oral Health Sciences, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden.
Lundh
H
H
Eriksson
L
L
Westesson
P L
PL
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002358:Cartilage, Articular / Q000473:pathology*; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D002648:Child; D004547:Elastic Tissue / Q000473:pathology; D005260:Female; D005347:Fibroblasts; D006801:Humans; D006818:Hyalin; D016013:Likelihood Functions; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013704:Temporomandibular Joint / Q000098:blood supply / Q000473:pathology*; D013705:Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / Q000473:pathology*