Objective: The objective of this study was to assess temporomandibular joint (TMJ) abnormalities in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) by longitudinal radiographic examinations from childhood to adulthood.
Study design: Radiographic TMJ evaluations of 60 JIA patients were obtained at baseline (mean age 8.6 years, mean disease duration 3.2 years) and 1 to 3 times thereafter, with the final examination on average 27 years after baseline. A radiographic grading system for severity of TMJ abnormality was applied.
Results: Cumulative radiographic TMJ abnormalities increased from baseline to final examination (42% to 75%, P < .001), as did bilateral TMJ involvement (60% to 82%, P < .001). Of patients with TMJ abnormalities, 53% showed progression, and 16% revealed signs of improvement. TMJ abnormalities were associated with physical limitations at baseline and reduced well-being and more extensive joint involvement at the final examination.
Conclusion: The frequency of TMJ abnormalities in JIA was high and increased from childhood to adulthood. Although progression of TMJ abnormalities was the general rule, near normalization also occurred on occasion.