Introduction:
An osteoid osteoma is a benign bone neoplasm with limited growth potential, characterized by significant nocturnal pain that usually responds to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The tumor may occur in any part of the skeleton, most commonly in the lower extremities and vertebrae.
Presentation of case:
A 46-year-old female was diagnosed with a rare case of an intra-articular variant of osteoid osteoma, involving the articular eminence and glenoid fossa of the temporo-mandibular joint (TMJ).
Discussion:
The tumor presented as a painful progressive swelling in the right pre-auricular area that had lasted for more than 2 years and which had been previously treated as a TMJ disorder. Computed tomography revealed a well-defined heterogeneous nidus involving the articular eminence of the TMJ. Surgical excision was performed and histological examination confirmed the diagnosis. In this article, in addition to describing the case, all cases of osteoid osteoma of the jaws and TMJ reported in the English-language literature are reviewed.
Conclusion:
Osteoid osteoma involving the TMJ is a rare presentation and may exhibit ambiguous symptoms, which could lead to misdiagnosis and delayed treatment.