Nondiscogenic Causes of Temporomandibular Joint Pain

Magnetic resonance imaging of the temporomandibular joint is a topic of recent interest and has gained widespread use for the assessment of internal derangement and other temporomandibular joint-related symptoms. In this article the authors present six proven cases of pathologic abnormalities of the temporomandibular joint region that may clinically mimic internal derangement. These cases demonstrate the importance of the monitoring of studies by a radiologist and also the utility of computed tomography as an adjunctive modality. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography are often complimentary in diagnosing etiologies that may mimic internal derangement. Because abnormalities other than internal derangement are often encountered during the use of magnetic resonance imaging, it is essential for the radiologist to assume an active role in monitoring such cases.