Condylar Hyperplasia
A pathological condition characterised by excessive, often unilateral, growth of the mandibular condyle, resulting in facial asymmetry and occlusal discrepancy.
Full Definition
Condylar hyperplasia is an abnormal proliferative condition of the mandibular condyle, most commonly presenting as a unilateral enlargement that causes progressive facial asymmetry, chin deviation to the contralateral side, and a canted occlusal plane. It may be active (continuing growth detectable on bone scintigraphy) or inactive (growth ceased). Diagnosis involves clinical examination, CBCT, and nuclear medicine imaging (technetium bone scan). Treatment typically requires condylectomy or high condylectomy to remove the hyperplastic center, followed by orthognathic correction. Editors must distinguish it from 'condylar growth,' which is normal developmental expansion, and from 'condylar resorption,' which is an opposite process.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from hemimandibular hyperplasia, which involves the entire half of the mandible, not solely the condyle.
In Context
- "A technetium bone scan confirmed active condylar hyperplasia on the right side, necessitating condylectomy prior to orthognathic surgery." — Surgical referral letter
- "The progressive chin deviation over 18 months raised clinical suspicion of condylar hyperplasia." — Progress notes