Structural and ultrastructural studies of the synovial membrane in temporomandibular joint disturbance syndrome.

To gain further knowledge on temporomandibular joint disturbance syndrome (TMJDS), the synovial membranes of 7 patients and 3 cadavers were examined with light microscope and transmission electron microscope. The results showed that the synoviocytes degenerated or disappeared in TMJDS. The cytoplasm contained numerous fibrils, while the organelles diminished in number. The surface of the synovial membrane was covered with a fibrinoid material. The surface of the synovial membrane was covered with a fibrinoid material. The authors consider that these pathological changes reduce or eliminate the normal functions of the synovial membrane, which may lead to damage to the articular cartilage. The articular adhesion found sometimes in TMJDS may be related to the changes in the synovial membrane.