Synovial chondromatosis of the temporomandibular joint: varying presentation in 4 cases.

Synovial chondromatosis is a rare condition in which cartilage is formed in the synovial membrane of a joint. The manifestations of this benign neoplastic process can mimic many common temporomandibular joint and parotid diseases. Four cases of synovial chondromatosis are presented. In each case, atypical presentation, coexisting joint disease, or both caused diagnostic confusion. The histories and physical examinations were initially consistent with more common joint diseases in each case. Imaging provided some insight into diagnosis and was a definitive indication for surgical treatment. Treatment by subtotal synovectomy and by removal of chondromatous nodules were undertaken in each case. No patient in our series has had recurrence of disease or symptoms after surgical treatment.