Objectives: To describe a case of mandibular condyle intrusion into the middle cranial fossa in a young child and to systematically review the literature pertaining to this condition.
Study design: The diagnostic procedures comprised clinical examination, health history, and both magnetic resonance imaging and computerized tomography. A systematic review of the literature from PubMed, Medline, and Web of Science databases from 1960 to 2005 was made and a total of 55 cases in 51 references were found, of which 36 were described in detail.
Conclusions: Prompt diagnosis of mandibular condyle intrusion into the middle cranial fossa is essential to minimize complications. Advanced imaging modalities of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are indicated.