Synovial cell sarcoma of the temporomandibular joint

Synovial cell sarcoma is a relatively rare tumor that occurs infrequently in the head and neck. Despite the low incidence, synovial cell sarcoma should be a part of the differential diagnosis when evaluating masses in the head and neck region. The primary mode of treatment is wide en bloc excision. The decision to perform lymph node dissections should be based on physical findings or imaging studies that suggest lymphadenopathy. Post-operative radiation therapy is believed to be of value, but only in large doses of 65 Gy or more. The role of chemotherapy remains unclear. Despite recent advances, the prognosis for this disease remains poor. This report describes the fourth reported case of synovial cell sarcoma involving the temporomandibular joint. The case report details the principles of wide excision and adjuvant radiation therapy in the treatment of synovial cell sarcoma.