Ultrasound findings and clinical evaluation of temporomandibular joint involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjögren’s syndrome: A cross-sectional study

This study aimed to evaluate temporomandibular joint (TMJ) involvement in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sjögren's syndrome, using clinical assessment and ultrasound (US) imaging. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 51 patients (41 with SLE and 10 with Sjögren's syndrome). TMJ dysfunction was assessed using clinical examination and US. Statistical analyses compared clinical and ultrasound findings and explored associations with disease characteristics. TMJ abnormalities were detected in 57% by US and 39% by clinical examination. Cortical irregularities (46% in SLE, 60% in Sjögren's syndrome) and osteophyte formation (29% in SLE and 30% in Sjögren's syndrome) were the most common US findings. Joint effusion was observed in 9.8% of patients with SLE but was absent in those with Sjögren's syndrome. Clinical symptoms, such as TMJ pain (7.3%), tenderness (2.4%), and joint clicking (4.9%), were reported only in patients with SLE. Jaw deviation was the most frequent clinical finding (26.8% in SLE and 30% in Sjögren's syndrome). TMJ abnormalities were more frequently detected via US than by clinical examination, particularly in Sjögren's syndrome (70% vs 30%, P < .05). TMJ involvement is prevalent in both SLE and Sjögren's syndrome, with US detecting abnormalities at a higher rate than clinical examinations. These findings highlight the importance of US in early TMJ assessment, supporting its role as a valuable screening tool for rheumatic disease management. Further research is required to explore the clinical implications and disease-specific patterns of TMJ involvement.