Differential Diagnosis for Masseter Muscle Pain
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder: This is the most likely diagnosis due to the close anatomical relationship between the masseter muscle and the TMJ. Pain in the masseter muscle is a common symptom of TMJ disorders, which can be caused by various factors including teeth grinding, jaw clenching, and arthritis.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Bruxism: This condition involves involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth, often during sleep, which can lead to pain in the masseter muscle due to overuse.
- Masseter Muscle Strain: Direct trauma or overuse of the masseter muscle can lead to strain, resulting in pain.
- Dental Problems: Issues such as abscesses, impacted teeth, or dental infections can radiate pain to the masseter muscle.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Trigeminal Neuralgia: A condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which supplies the face, including the masseter muscle. It can cause severe, shock-like pain and is important not to miss due to its significant impact on quality of life.
- Giant Cell Arteritis: Although rare, this condition can cause jaw claudication (pain in the jaw when chewing) and is a medical emergency due to the risk of vision loss if not promptly treated.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Myofascial Pain Syndrome: A condition characterized by pain and inflammation in the muscles and their surrounding soft tissues, which can affect the masseter muscle.
- Dystonia: A neurological disorder that can cause involuntary muscle contractions, leading to abnormal postures and pain, including in the masseter muscle.
- Polymyalgia Rheumatica: An inflammatory condition that causes muscle pain and stiffness, particularly in the shoulders, hips, and jaw, which could involve the masseter muscle.