Tumor necrosis factor in synovial fluid of patients with temporomandibular disorders

J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 1995 Apr;53(4):424-6. doi: 10.1016/0278-2391(95)90717-3.

Abstract

Purpose: To assess tumor necrosis factor (TNF) activity in synovial fluid from patients with temporomandibular disorders.

Patients and methods: Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) activity in synovial fluid from 27 patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) was studied using the MTT tetrazolium WEHI 164 clone 13 cell cytotoxicity assay.

Results: No detectable TNF levels were found in five patients with a masticatory muscle disorder, but elevated TNF levels were found in 5 of 11 patients with TMJ disc displacement, and in 9 of 11 patients with degenerative joint disease.

Conclusion: The findings of biologically active TNF in the synovial fluid of these patients suggests that it may play a role in the pathogenesis of certain temporomandibular disorders.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Biological Assay
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Joint Dislocations / metabolism
  • Male
  • Masticatory Muscles / metabolism
  • Osteoarthritis / metabolism
  • Synovial Fluid / chemistry*
  • Temporomandibular Joint Disorders / metabolism*
  • Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome / metabolism
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / analysis
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / metabolism*

Substances

  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha