Diaphyseal aclasis affecting the temporomandibular joint

Diaphyseal aclasis is a rare disorder of bone development in which multiple , cartilagenous exostoses develop and enlarge mainly on the ends of long bo nes. It has also been described in the vertebral column where it may give r ise to spinal cord compression but has not previously been reported as occu rring in the jaws. A case is reported in which a patient known to suffer fr om diaphyseal aclasis at many other anatomical sites displays temporomandib ular joint changes which are highly suggestive of the disease now manifesti ng in the jaws. The presentation, investigations and treatment are describe d and the literature concerning previous cases of diaphyseal aclasis is rev iewed.