What is your inflammatory arthritis differential when a patient presents with unilateral TMJ synovitis?
Answer from: at Community Practice
The differential of TMJ disease depends on the age group. In the younger population, JIA must be very high on the differential. In adults, the differential includes RA, dermatomyositis, systemic sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosis, and spondyloarthropathies (Ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic ...
The question assumes that we are dealing with an inflammatory etiology. Here I agree with Dr. @Paul J. DeMarco. However, when approaching the problem, particularly if the inflammation is unilateral, then infections must first be ruled out. Not uncommonly the organism may be unusual. The diagnosis ca...