[Effects of tumor necrosis factor of TMJ in temporomandibular joint disturbance syndrome].

The synovial fluids from 17 cases of TMJ disturbance syndrome (TMJDS) and 5 normal persons were studied. The results show that TNF present in the synovial fluid of TMJDS patients. There is no significant difference between the cases of internal derangement and osteoarthritis. The concentration of TNF is associated with the bone destruction, local pain, open limit and the illness period. The authors consider that the TNF may take part in the autoimmunity of this disease and the destructive process of articular tissues.