Immunohistochemical analysis of IL-1 beta in the discs of patients with temporomandibular joint dysfunction.

PURPOSE: Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1beta) is a cytokine that participates in the regulation of immune responses and inflammatory reactions. It is hypothesized that IL-1 levels may be elevated in patients suffering from temporomandibular joint dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to determine the association of IL-1beta expression with TMD using an immunohistochemical approach to evaluate the joint disc. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 39 human temporomandibular joint disc samples were collected, with 31 samples in the test group. Nineteen of the test group samples were from discs of patients with anterior disc displacement with reduction, and 12 of the samples were from patients with anterior disc displacement without reduction. Eight control samples were used in the control group. The samples were immunostained and evaluated on both quantity and intensity of staining. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) between the control and test groups for both quantity and intensity of staining. CONCLUSION: IL-1beta plays a role in the inflammatory process and degradation of TMJ discs in patients with TMJ dysfunctions.