[Calcium pyrophosphate arthropathy (pseudogout) of the temporomandibular joint].

The temporomandibular joint is rarely affected by crystal deposition disease (gout and pseudogout). Only the temporomandibular joint was affected in a 69-year-old patient with calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate deposition disease (pseudogout). This case is described here. Clinically presenting as painless swelling, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging showed signs of a chronic destructive arthritis. The evidence for calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals was provided by histological examination. Diagnostic criteria, differential diagnosis and possibilities for treatment are discussed on the basis of our own experience and the literature.