Comparison of cytokine level in synovial fluid between successful and unsuccessful cases in arthrocentesis of the temporomandibular joint

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare proinflammatory cytokine levels between successful cases and unsuccessful cases of arthrocentesis in patients with internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Patients and Methods: This study involved 73 joints judged as successful and 30 judged as unsuccessful of 103 joints in 100 patients diagnosed with internal derangement of the TMJ and who underwent arthrocentesis. The diluted synovial fluid before undergoing arthrocentesis was aspirated from the superior joint space. The concentrations of interleukin (IL)-1beta, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, IL-6, and IL-8 were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The differences in the detection rate and concentration of each cytokine between successful cases and unsuccessful cases were analyzed statistically. Results: There was a statistically significant difference between successful cases (72.2%) and unsuccessful cases (95.5%) in the detection ratio of IL-6 (P < .05). There was a statistically significant difference between successful cases (0.017 pg/100 mug protein) and unsuccessful cases (0.046 pg/100 mug protein) in the concentration of IL-1beta (P < .05). Conclusion: It has been shown that the presence of IL-1beta and IL-6 in synovial fluid may be indicators of possible unsuccessful treatment following arthrocentesis for internal derangement of the TMJ. (C) 2004 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.