Role of Cytokines and Matrix Metallo-Proteinases in Patients with Temporo-Mandibular Joint Internal Derangements and/or Osteoarthritis

The purpose of this systematic review is to investigate on the relationship between synovial level of cytokinesand matrix metallo-proteinases and temporo-mandibular joint (TMJ) internal derangements (IDs) and/or osteoarthritis(OA). Twelve studies were included in the review and markers were evaluated in respect to IDs and OA. Findings fromthese investigations highlighted that higher levels of IL1, IL-6, IL-11, TGF1 were associated to TMJ’s OA; on the otherhand, higher levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 could correlate to ID without reduction (IDw/oR). Furthermore higher levelsof MMP-9 could associate also to severe condition of TMJ’s OA. The findings of this systematic review could represent auseful tool for diagnosis and prognosis of TMJ’s diseases, particularly about the effectiveness of arthroscopy and/orarthrocentesis in patients submitted to repeated surgical treatments. The paper also outlines some recent patents.