Synovial sarcoma of the temporomandibular joint and infratemporal fossa

Abstract

Objective: Synovial sarcoma in the head and neck region is rare, and is difficult to resect with adequate safety margins because of its anatomical complexity. We herein report our experiences with synovial sarcoma in this region, and review the literature regarding the management of such cases.

Method: We retrospectively examined four cases of synovial sarcoma arising from the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) area and infratemporal fossa.

Result: Only one patient remains alive without disease, while the other three patients have died.

Conclusion: The local control of these tumors has improved because of the progress in the surgical operation methods, while it is expected that there is still a high rate of deaths due to distant metastasis increase. The development of strong chemotherapy is needed for the use after the initial treatment and surgery.

Keywords: Head and neck; Infratemporal fossa; Surgery; Synovial sarcoma; Temporomandibular joint.