TMJ herniation associated with lymphangioma of the parotid region.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to present clinical, audiological, and radiologic findings of a rare case of the temporomandibular joint herniation associated with lymphangioma of the parotid region. CLINICAL REPORT A 21-year-old man with the complaints of a mass on the right side of the face, otalgia, and hearing loss in the right ear was referred to our department. The examination revealed a herniating temporomandibular joint into the right external auditory meatus when the patient closed his mouth. He had also hearing loss when he closed his mouth. Upon opening the mouth, the temporomandibular joint returned into its normal position within the glenoid fossa, and the hearing became normal. The patient had also lymphangioma involving mainly the parotid region. CONCLUSIONS: Temporomandibular joint herniation into the external auditory meatus may be rarely due to parotid lymphangioma, which leads to pseudo-conductive hearing loss.