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Published on: August 15, 2025
A hematogenous spread brain abscess invading the right damaged temporomandibular joint
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany. klatt.jc@web.de
Summary
A rare brain abscess spontaneously drained into a temporomandibular joint affected by osteoarthritis. Surgical intervention led to successful recovery and inflammation resolution, highlighting an unusual connection between joint disease and intracranial infection.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) osteoarthritis can lead to joint damage.
- Brain abscesses are serious intracranial infections requiring prompt treatment.
- Spontaneous drainage of brain abscesses into adjacent structures is exceptionally rare.
Observation:
- A patient presented with severe headache and TMJ pain, alongside elevated inflammatory markers of unknown origin.
- Whole-body MRI revealed a large temporal brain abscess extending into the glenoid fossa of the TMJ.
- Histological examination confirmed chronic arthrosis of the TMJ and an inflammatory brain abscess.
Findings:
- The brain abscess was surgically incised and drained.
- Resection of the articular disc and affected TMJ bone was performed concurrently.
- Postoperative imaging confirmed local consolidation and resolution of inflammation.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare but severe complication of TMJ osteoarthritis.
- It underscores the importance of considering intracranial pathology in patients with unexplained inflammation and TMJ symptoms.
- Multidisciplinary surgical and medical management is crucial for favorable outcomes in such complex cases.
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