Clinical significance of increased temporomandibular joint uptake by planar isotope bone scan

Previous studies have suggested a role for the isotope bone scan in the evaluation of patients with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) related symptoms. The studies have not evaluated the frequency or significance of increased TMJ uptake in a random population. One hundred fourteen patients receiving routine bone scans were asked to complete questionnaires regarding TMJ symptoms. The data show that marked TMJ uptake is relatively rare (4%) and correlated with appropriately lateralizing symptoms in all cases. Lesser degrees of increased TMJ uptake correlated poorly (50% symptomatic). The authors suggest that increased TMJ uptake is a significant finding on routine isotope bone scans. The role of the isotope bone scan in the symptomatic patient remains unclear.