J Korean Assoc Oral Maxillofac Surg.  2017 Apr;43(2):134-137. 10.5125/jkaoms.2017.43.2.134.

Giant cell tumor of temporomandibular joint masquerading as temporomandibular joint pain dysfunction syndrome: a rare case report

• Sam JE
• Rachmat RP
• Melano CS
• Wahab NA

• KMID: 2377018
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5125/jkaoms.2017.43.2.134

Abstract

Giant cell tumor (GCT) of the craniofacial bones has been reported but they are not common. This tumor occurs more often in women than in men and predominantly affects patients around the third to fifth decade of life. GCTs are generally benign but can be locally aggressive as well. We report a case of GCT involving the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which was initially thought to be temporomandibular disorder (TMD). A 22-year-old female presented with swelling and pain over the right temporal region for 18 months associated with jaw locking and clicking sounds. On examination, her jaw deviated to the right during opening and there was a 2×2 cm swelling over the right temporal region. Despite routine treatment for TMD, the swelling increased in size. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and TMJ revealed an erosive tumor of the temporal bone involving the TMJ which was displacing the temporal lobe. Surgical excision was done and the tumor removed completely. Histopathological examination was consistent with a GCT. No clinical or radiological recurrence was detected 10 months post-surgery.

Keyword

Giant cell tumors; Temporomandibular joint; Temporomandibular joint disorders; Temporal bone; Mandible

MeSH Terms

Brain
Female
Giant Cell Tumors*
Giant Cells*
Humans
Jaw
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Male
Mandible
Recurrence
Temporal Bone
Temporal Lobe
Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
Temporomandibular Joint*
Young Adult

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Computed tomography scan showing an erosive tumor of squamous temporal bone and temporomandibular joint.

• 

  Fig. 2 Magnetic resonance imaging post-gadolinium showing an extra-axial heterogenous mass compressing on the right temporal lobe.

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  Fig. 3 Intraoperative picture of the right temporal region. Forceps holding part of destroyed temporomandibular joint.

• 

  Fig. 4 Numerous multinucleated giant cells (H&E staining, ×200).

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