Clinically significant, nontraumatic, degenerative joint disease of the temporomandibular joints in a horse
Authors: Smyth T., Allen A. L., Carmalt J. L.
Journal: Equine Veterinary Education
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Temporomandibular Joint Degenerative Disease in Horses Whilst traumatic injury is the recognised cause of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) degenerative joint disease in horses, this 2017 case report documents a clinically significant presentation of bilateral TMJ-DJD arising from non-traumatic, age-related degeneration—a scenario previously unreported in the peer-reviewed literature. Through comprehensive diagnostic imaging (radiography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging) combined with post-mortem histological examination, the authors identified bilateral mineralisation of the rostral intra-articular discs, establishing the pathological basis for the horse's clinical signs of quidding, audible clicking during mastication, and recurrent colic episodes. Intra-articular corticosteroid injections provided temporary relief of both the mastication abnormalities and gastrointestinal signs, though repeated treatments were necessary to maintain clinical improvement. These findings extend our understanding of TMJ pathology beyond trauma-related sequelae and suggest that equine professionals should consider age-related joint degeneration in older horses presenting with quidding or abnormal masticatory sounds, particularly where secondary colic issues complicate the clinical picture.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Consider TMJ-DJD in the differential diagnosis for horses presenting with quidding, audible clicking during chewing, or recurrent colic—not all cases result from trauma
- •Advanced imaging (CT/MRI) can confirm TMJ pathology and disc mineralization; intra-articular corticosteroid injection is a treatment option but provides temporary relief requiring repeated interventions
- •Monitor older horses for age-related TMJ degeneration and be aware it may contribute to secondary issues like colic and feed wastage
Key Findings
- •Bilateral TMJ-DJD can develop nontraumatically in horses, manifesting as quidding, audible clicking during mastication, and recurrent colic episodes
- •Computed tomography revealed bilateral mineralization of the rostral intra-articular discs of both TMJs
- •Intra-articular corticosteroid injection provided temporary resolution of clinical signs but required repeated treatment over time
- •Age-related degenerative changes of the TMJ may occur without preceding traumatic injury