Interleukin-1β in synovial fluid from the arthritic temporomandibular joint and ets relation to pain, mobility, and anterior open bite

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether interleukin-1 beta in synovial fluid or blood plasma is involved in the development of pain or hyperalgesia of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), as well as reduced mandibular mobility and anterior open bite. Patients and Methods: Twenty-nine patients with TMJ arthritis and seven healthy subjects were studied. VAS measurement of TMJ tenderness on palpation of the TMJ (TDP), TMJ pressure pain threshold and tolerance level (PPTL), mandibular mobility, pain during joint movements, and degree of anterior open bite (AOB) were assessed. IL-1 beta levels were analyzed in TMJ synovial fluid (SF-IL-1 beta) and blood samples and correlated with the preceding factors. Results: SF-IL-1 beta showed significant positive correlations with VAS measurement of pain, TDP, and AOB and a negative correlation with PPTL. Conclusions: This study indicates that IL-IP in the synovial fluid is associated with pain and hyperalgesia in the TMJ region as well as an anterior open bite. Concerning the latter condition, IL-IP seems to be a warning signal of tissue destruction.