Investigation of collagen architecture in diseases of temporomandibular joint

Background: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a stress bearing structure. Its resilience and functions are supported by collagen architecture. Visualization of this collagen networking can be done under polarizing microscope. This network gets modified in a variety of conditions affecting the TMJ likeankylosis, degenerative joint disorder, neoplastic conditions, trauma and ageing. The objective of this study is to analyze the histomorphological changes in TMJ conditions and correlate them with collagen architecture so as to project scoring criteria for distinguishing between osseous changes. Methods: Paraffin based H and E sections of TMJ conditions were obtained and observed under polarizing microscopy. Sample distribution was as follows: Degenerative joint disease (n=10), ankylosis (n=5) and osteochondroma (n=5). A scoring criterion was devised and cutoff value was determined. Results: Immature or formative tissue was found to have a score of less than and equal to five and mature tissue had a score of greater than and equal to six. Conclusion: Scoring criterion proposed in this study is a reliable technique and can be used for confirming the histological architectural changes within a diseased TMJ.