Symptom Finder - Trismus ( Lock Jaw)
TRISMUS (LOCK JAW)
Recall of the causes of trismus is facilitated by the mnemonic MINT.
M—Malformation includes impacted wisdom teeth and temporomandibular joint syndrome.
I—Inflammation brings to mind tetanus, rabies, and trichinosis. I also signifies intoxication, helping one to recall strychnine poisoning.
N—Neuropsychiatric disorders call to mind mental conditions such as malingering or hysteria and epilepsy.
T—Trauma suggests fracture or contusion of the jaw which will cause pain on opening the jaw but is not a true trismus.
Approach to the Diagnosis
A careful search for infected wounds, especially needle injection sites in cases of possible drug addiction, is important if tetanus is suspected. X-ray of the teeth, jaw, and temporomandibular joints may be helpful.
Trichinosis is diagnosed by a high eosinophil count, serologic tests, and muscle biopsy. A wake-and-sleep EEG should be ordered if epilepsy is suspected. If organic causes are ruled out, a psychiatrist should be consulted.
Recall of the causes of trismus is facilitated by the mnemonic MINT.
M—Malformation includes impacted wisdom teeth and temporomandibular joint syndrome.
I—Inflammation brings to mind tetanus, rabies, and trichinosis. I also signifies intoxication, helping one to recall strychnine poisoning.
N—Neuropsychiatric disorders call to mind mental conditions such as malingering or hysteria and epilepsy.
T—Trauma suggests fracture or contusion of the jaw which will cause pain on opening the jaw but is not a true trismus.
Approach to the Diagnosis
A careful search for infected wounds, especially needle injection sites in cases of possible drug addiction, is important if tetanus is suspected. X-ray of the teeth, jaw, and temporomandibular joints may be helpful.
Trichinosis is diagnosed by a high eosinophil count, serologic tests, and muscle biopsy. A wake-and-sleep EEG should be ordered if epilepsy is suspected. If organic causes are ruled out, a psychiatrist should be consulted.
