CT features of synovial chondromatosis in the temporomandibular joint.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to determine the characteristic computed tomography (CT) findings of synovial chondromatosis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).


METHODS
Eight subjects with synovial chondromatosis were examined with axial and coronal CT scans. All lesions were histopathologically confirmed either through an arthroscopic punch biopsy or surgery. CT appearances of the lesions were reviewed and classified.


RESULTS
Among the 8 subjects, 7 (87.5%) demonstrated soft tissue swelling, 7 (87.5%) showed loose calcified bodies, and 6 (75%) had bony changes of the articular surfaces. Patterns of the skull base changes as well as intracranial extension of the disease were identified.


CONCLUSIONS
Based on the CT findings, synovial chondromatosis of the TMJ is characterized by soft tissue swelling, loose calcified bodies, and bony changes of the skull base. The latter may lead to destruction of the central skull base and intracranial extension.
Yu
Qiang
Q
Department of Radiology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Second Medical University, People's Republic of China. hosp9th@public3.sta.net.en
Yang
Jie
J
Wang
Pingzhong
P
Shi
Huimin
H
Luo
Jicheng
J
D000328:Adult; D001182:Arthroscopy; D001707:Biopsy, Needle; D002358:Cartilage, Articular / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D015838:Chondromatosis, Synovial / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology; D004487:Edema / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007594:Joint Loose Bodies / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008297:Male; D008335:Mandibular Condyle / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008875:Middle Aged; D019291:Skull Base / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D013701:Temporal Bone / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D013705:Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed