Synovial chondromatosis extending to the ear canal: An unusual cause of conductive hearing loss.

INTRODUCTION

Synovial chondromatosis (SC) is a rare benign disorder characterized by synovial metaplasia leading to the formation of osteocartilaginous nodules within the joint. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) involvement is uncommon and typically presents non-specific symptoms. Hearing loss associated with TMJ SC is exceptionally rare.

OBSERVATION: We report the case of a 70-year-old woman presenting with progressive right-sided conductive hearing loss. Clinical evaluation revealed a painless preauricular swelling associated with external auditory canal stenosis. Audiometric testing confirmed right-sided conductive hearing loss, and imaging studies demonstrated numerous calcified nodules suggesting the diagnosis of an extended SC. Surgical excision with arthrotomy allowed complete removal of the chondromas. Postoperative pure-tone audiometry showed normalization of hearing and histopathological analysis confirmed SC.

DISCUSSION: This case underscores the importance of considering TMJ pathology and especially SC of the TMJ in patients with unexplained conductive hearing loss.