Ultrasound assessment of temporomandibular disorders: comparative analysis between inflammatory and degenerative patterns in rheumatic and non-rheumatic patients.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) encompass a range of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), with causes that may be inflammatory or degenerative. Differentiating these mechanisms is essential for targeted treatment, especially in patients with underlying rheumatic diseases.

Objective

This prospective, cross-sectional study assessed the utility of ultrasound (US) in distinguishing inflammatory from degenerative TMJ changes across different patient populations.

Methods

From 2018 to February 2025, 272 patients with TMD symptoms underwent standardized TMJ US. They were grouped into those with inflammatory rheumatic diseases (n = 202), primary fibromyalgia (n = 33), and individuals without rheumatologic conditions (n = 37). A control group of

SUBMITTER: Maranini B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12923428 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature