[The effects of tumor necrosis factor on rabbits' temporomandibular joint]

The histological changes of 16 rabbits' temporomandibular joints (TMJ) were studied after they had been injected with tumor necrosis factor (TNF). The results show that TNF can destroy the articular tissues. The changes are similar to those found in TMJ disturbance syndrome. With the finding that the TNF appears in the synovial fluids of TMJ DS, the authors consider that the changes of articular tissues in TMJ DS are related to the presence of TNF in the joints.