[Neoplasms of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Diagnosis, differential diagnosis and intervention].

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effectiveness of diagnostic and interventional radiological techniques for neoplastic lesions of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

Modern diagnosis of the TMJ is based on the clinical use of conventional X-ray techniques, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and interventional techniques like biopsies, vascular occlusion and ablation.

RESULTS

Conventional X-ray still forms the basic diagnostic procedure applied in open and closed mouth position. CT improves the diagnostic information and serves as the standard diagnostical instrument for cartaliganeous or osseous neoplastic lesions. MRI evaluates soft tissue infiltration in multiplanar techniques and high spatial resolution. Interventional vascular and ablative techniques improve the treatment of neoplastic disorders.

CONCLUSION

Radiological diagnostic procedures are essentials for the diagnosis and intervention of neoplastic lesions of the temporomandibular joint.