Time to Reconsider Management of the Temporomandibular Joint in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2018 Jun;76(6):1145-1146. doi: 10.1016/j.joms.2018.02.019. Epub 2018 Feb 26.

Abstract

The temporomandibular joints are often affected by juvenile idiopathic arthritis, but few evidence-based management strategies exist. Intra-articular steroid injection (IASI) is a common intervention and is associated with pain reduction and improved mandibular function. Emerging evidence, however, suggests that IASI may actually impair rather than improve mandibular growth. It is therefore time to reconsider this practice.

MeSH terms

  • Arthritis, Juvenile / complications*
  • Child
  • Glucocorticoids / administration & dosage
  • Glucocorticoids / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Injections, Intra-Articular / adverse effects*
  • Mandible / drug effects*
  • Mandible / growth & development*
  • Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / drug therapy*
  • Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / etiology*

Substances

  • Glucocorticoids