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Temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Connective tissue variations in skin biopsy and mitral valve function
L Westling1, S Holm, I Wallentin
1Department of Stomatognathic Physiology, Faculty of Odontology, University of Göteborg, Sweden.
Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, and Oral Pathology
|December 1, 1992
Summary
Young women with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction and joint hypermobility show altered skin collagen and proteoglycan levels. This may link TMJ issues to mitral valve problems and musculoskeletal pain.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Cardiology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction is often associated with generalized joint hypermobility.
- Connective tissue abnormalities may underlie systemic manifestations of TMJ dysfunction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between joint hypermobility, skin connective tissue composition, mitral valve function, and musculoskeletal complaints in women with TMJ dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- Biopsy of arm skin for collagen and proteoglycan analysis.
- Echocardiography to assess mitral valve function.
- Comparison between patients with TMJ dysfunction and hypermobility and healthy controls.
Main Results:
- Hypermobile TMJ patients had lower total collagen and higher proteoglycan concentrations in skin connective tissue compared to controls.
- A higher prevalence of slightly abnormal echocardiographic findings and mitral valve prolapse was observed in patients.
- Patients reported significantly more musculoskeletal complaints.
Conclusions:
- Joint hypermobility in women with TMJ dysfunction is associated with altered skin connective tissue composition.
- These findings suggest a potential link between TMJ dysfunction, connective tissue abnormalities, mitral valve abnormalities, and musculoskeletal disorders.