Ganglion and Synovial Cyst of the Temporomandibular Joint

Abstract

Summary:Ganglion and synovial cysts of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) are rare. Although histopathological findings differ, clinical presentation is comparable. This study adds a case report of a ganglion of the TMJ to existing literature and a review of all available case reports on ganglion and synovial cysts of the TMJ. Including our own case report, we reviewed 49 cases of ganglion and synovial cysts of the TMJ. They occurred in a female:male ratio of 3:1, at an median age of 46 years (range, 11–64 years). Patients mainly presented with preauricular swelling and pain. After imaging, the ganglion or synovial cyst was most commonly excised under general anesthesia. No recurrences were described.

Bilateral synovial cysts of the temporomandibular joint

“…On review of the literature, there are 29 reported cases of unilateral synovial cysts of the TMJ in the English literature 1–20. This is the second case report of bilateral TMJ synovial cysts.…”

A Rare Cause of a Fluctuating Cystic Lesion in the External Auditory Canal

“…TMJ ganglion within the external auditory canal is rare. The median age of patients is approximately 46, and TMJ cysts occur more commonly in the female gender with a ratio of 3 : 1 [ 1 ].…”

“…They are thought to come about from myxoid degeneration of the connective tissue encompassing the joint capsule. Trauma and inflammation have been suggested to play a role [ 1 , 3 ].…”

“…Reports of these cystic lesions arising from the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) are scarce. When they occur, they are most commonly found in the preauricular region, with the most common presenting clinical features being pain and swelling [ 1 ]. Conventionally, pain, limitation of movement, and local pressure symptoms are indications for surgery [ 2 ].…”

Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Pictorial Review

“…Treatment consists of complete surgical excision; recurrence rates are probably low because no recurrences have yet been reported. 17,37…”