Extra-Skeletal Chondroma in the Temporomandibular Joint Region

Introduction: Extra-skeletal chondromas are rare and benign cartilaginous neoplasms that normally occur in hands and feet. An analysis of the up to now published literature reveals only one comparable case in the preauricular region. Material and methods: This case-report describes the rare case of an extra-skeletal chondroma in the preauricular region, its resection and the following reconstruction of the temporomandibular joint. Results: Finding the diagnosis of an extra-skeletal chondroma was complex and difficult because swelling and medical imaging initially provided ambiguous results. The histopathologic sample was also difficult to interprete. Due to that sample had to be referred to a reference-pathology. Conclusion: Extra-skeletal chondromas are rare benign tumors. Their appearance in the haed and neck area is extremely rare and the diagnostic process is extremely difficult due to several possible differential diagnosis although extensive clinical and imaging possibilities are available. Keywords: extra-skeletal chondroma, temporomandibular joint