Painful Swelling of the Temporomandibular Joint

Photo of a woman with swelling in her right jaw
The following Case Challenge is provided in conjunction with the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology.

In September 1999, a 59-year old woman was referred by her dentist to an Oral Medicine practice for evaluation of acute pain and swelling in her right temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

After you have finished reviewing the available diagnostic information, make the diagnosis.