Isolated Arthritis of the Temporomandibular Joint as the Initial Manifestation of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

Objective. To describe characteristics of patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) presenting with isolated arthritis of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ). Methods. Patients with JIA with isolated TMJ arthritis from 4 large tertiary pediatric rheumatology centers were included. Demographic and clinical data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results. Fifty-five patients were identified (65% bilateral presentation). Six patients developed arthritis in other joints (median time 6 mos); 4 patients developed uveitis, all prior to arthritis. At last followup, 9% were still taking antirheumatic medications. Conclusion. JIA TMJ arthritis can occur in isolation, and is probably underdiagnosed. Care providers including dentists and orthodontists should be aware of this presentation.