Temporomandibular joint involvement in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis-Symptoms, clinical signs and radiographic findings

Background Although many children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) develop arthritis and deformity of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), many go undetected. Objective This study investigates whether findings from patient history and clinical examination using the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) can be used to diagnose TMJ involvement. Methods As a part of the screening program, 59 consecutive JIA patients age 7-14 years underwent a clinical examination according to RDC/TMD including self-reported orofacial pain and pain related to jaw function, and cone beam computer tomography (CBCT). Data were obtained from the patient's medical charts. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of TMJ deformities on CBCT. Results Self-reported TMJ symptoms before inclusion were reported by 52% of children with and 18% of children without TMJ deformities on CBCT (p = .020). On a group level, the maximum unassisted (mouth) opening (MUO) with and without pain was within the normal range, but children with TMJ deformities showed a significantly smaller MUO with pain (p = .035). A diagnosis of osteoarthritis and osteoarthrosis was more prevalent in children with TMJ deformities. Conclusion Although there were few differences between children with and without radiographic TMJ deformities, self-reported previous TMJ symptoms and reduced MUO with pain could indicate the presence of TMJ involvement. However, radiographic examinations are needed to confirm TMJ involvement. Thus, this study indicates that the RDC/TMD protocol is a blunt tool when targeting TMJ involvement in JIA.

Automated summary

This study aimed to investigate the diagnosis of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) involvement in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) through patient history and clinical examination. The results suggest that self-reported TMJ symptoms and smaller MUO with pain may indicate TMJ involvement, although radiographic examinations are necessary for confirmation. The study indicates that the RDC/TMD protocol may be a blunt tool for targeting TMJ involvement in JIA.