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Systematic Assessment of Mammalian Skull Specimens for Dental and Temporomandibular Joint Pathology
Published on: August 22, 2022
Septic arthritis of the temporomandibular joint
Leandro Eduardo Klüppel1, Felipe Bueno Rosetti Bernabé, Bruno Tochetto Primo
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Ponta Grossa State University, Federal University of Paraná, Paraná, Brazil.
Abstract:
Septic arthritis of the temporomandibular joint is a rare acute infectious disease that requires attention from physicians and, once misdiagnosed, can have several implications for a patient. The most common microorganisms related to this disease are Staphylococcus aureus, Neisseria, Haemophilus influenzae, and Streptococcus. The infection of the joint may be caused by a direct spread of a local infection or by hematogenous inoculation from a distant focus. General predisposing factors, such as immunodepression, can eventually be found. The aim of the current study was to report a case in which a patient with an articular infection resulting from hematogenous dissemination from a distant site was successfully treated using joint drainage and systemic antibiotics. Secretion culture from the temporomandibular joint space was positive for S. aureus. After 1 month of antimicrobial therapy, the patient was asymptomatic and mandibular function was normal. Literature related to this topic was reviewed and discussed.
Insights
Septic arthritis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a rare infection. This case study highlights successful treatment of TMJ septic arthritis caused by Staphylococcus aureus using joint drainage and antibiotics.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Rheumatology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Septic arthritis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a rare but serious condition.
- Misdiagnosis can lead to significant patient complications.
- Common causative agents include Staphylococcus aureus, Neisseria, Haemophilus influenzae, and Streptococcus.
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