Pseudogout of the temporomandibular joint: an uncommon cause of temporomandibular joint pain and swelling

Abstract

Background: Pseudogout, or calcium pyrophosphate deposition, is a rare cause of pain, swelling, and trismus of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Diagnosis and management of the lesion are discussed.

Case description: A 58-year-old female had a 2-month history of progressive swelling of right TMJ associated with trismus and facial pain. Imaging of the TMJ revealed a mixed radiolucent and radiopaque lesion associated with the right TMJ joint space. Surgical excision was performed successfully via preauricular approach. Pathology was consistent with calcium pyrophosphate deposition of the TMJ, also known as pseudogout. Surgical excision successfully treated her symptoms as expected. She is now disease free without recurrence.

Clinical implications: Pseudogout is a rare cause of TMJ pain, swelling, and trismus that should be included in the differential of joint pain and dysfunction. It can be treated successfully with surgery.