Recognizing the temporomandibular joint ganglion.

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Head and Neck Pathology

Background:

• Preauricular masses can present diagnostic challenges.
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders may manifest as palpable masses.
• Ganglion cysts are uncommon but important differential diagnoses for parotid region tumors.

Observation:

• A cystic preauricular mass was noted to change in size and position with jaw movement.
• The mass retracted into the masseter muscle upon jaw opening.
• This dynamic behavior suggested a TMJ-related pathology.

Findings:

• Histopathological examination confirmed the mass as a ganglion cyst of the temporomandibular joint.
• TMJ ganglion cysts are rare, benign entities.
• These cysts can clinically mimic parotid gland tumors.

Implications:

• Considering TMJ pathology is crucial for preauricular masses exhibiting jaw movement correlation.
• Temporomandibular joint radiography and ultrasonography aid in preoperative diagnosis.
• Direct excision and TMJ capsule repair provide effective treatment, minimizing surgical morbidity compared to parotidectomy.