[Myofascial trigger point disease--a multidisciplinary disorder].
Trigger Point Disease is a complex clinical condition. Physicians are required to take a multidisciplinary and preventive approach towards the treatment of this disorder, in order to avoid the chronicity of symptoms. The aim of this review is to perform an update on this subject.


METHODS
An extensive bibliographic review was carried out based on reference text books and published articles. A thorough search through PubMed using the keywords "trigger point", "myofascial pain", "temporomandibular system", and "tender points" was completed. The review was performed in English and the time limit was April 10th 2008.


RESULTS
Trigger Point Disease is a disorder not completely clarified - its pathophysiology has been postulated throughout the years, however there is no conclusive theory.


CONCLUSIONS
The articles and texts reviewed underline the need for an early diagnosis of this disease in order to treat its aetiology and avoid the chronicity of symptoms.
Caramês
J
J
Faculdade de Medicina Dentária da Universidade de Lisboa, Instituto de Implantologia.
Carvalhão
F
F
Real Dias
M C
MC
D006801:Humans; D009209:Myofascial Pain Syndromes / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D010348:Patient Care Team