Direct coronal CT of the temporomandibular joints in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Direct coronal computed tomography [CT] of the temporomandibular joint [TMJ] was performed in 25 patients with rheumatoid arthritis [RA] and 25 control subjects. Mandibular condylar head erosions and cysts were detected in 92% of the RA group and 40% of the control group. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of other osseous changes. Bilateral involvement of the TMJ was 80% in RA group and 28% of the control group. Erosions and cysts is of the mandibular condyle and the bilateral nature of these changes should suggest RA