Synovial osteochondromatosis

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Synovial osteochondromatosis
Synovial osteochondromatosis
Synonyms	Synovial chondromatosis, synovial chondrometaplasia
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Joint pain, swelling, reduced range of motion
Complications	Osteoarthritis, joint degeneration
Onset	Typically between ages 30 and 50
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Unknown, possibly related to trauma or inflammation
Risks	Recurrent joint trauma, genetic predisposition
Diagnosis	X-ray, MRI, arthroscopy
Differential diagnosis	Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Arthroscopic surgery, synovectomy, removal of loose bodies
Medication	NSAIDs for pain management
Prognosis	Generally good with treatment, but may recur
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Synovial osteochondromatosis is a rare, benign condition characterized by the formation of cartilaginous nodules in the synovial membrane of joints, tendon sheaths, or bursae. These nodules can become detached and form loose bodies within the joint space, leading to joint pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion.

Pathophysiology

The exact cause of synovial osteochondromatosis is not well understood. It is thought to result from metaplasia of the synovial membrane, where the synovial cells transform into chondrocytes, producing cartilage. Over time, these cartilaginous nodules may calcify or ossify, becoming loose bodies within the joint.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with synovial osteochondromatosis typically present with joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. The condition most commonly affects the knee joint, but it can also occur in the hip joint, shoulder joint, elbow joint, and ankle joint. The presence of loose bodies can lead to mechanical symptoms such as locking or clicking of the joint.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of synovial osteochondromatosis is primarily based on clinical examination and imaging studies. X-ray imaging may reveal calcified loose bodies within the joint. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is more sensitive and can show both calcified and non-calcified nodules, as well as any associated synovial proliferation.

Treatment

The treatment of synovial osteochondromatosis often involves surgical intervention. Arthroscopy is commonly used to remove loose bodies and to perform synovectomy, which is the removal of the affected synovial tissue. In some cases, open surgery may be necessary, especially if there is extensive involvement of the joint.

Prognosis

The prognosis for patients with synovial osteochondromatosis is generally good following surgical treatment. However, there is a risk of recurrence, and patients may require follow-up to monitor for any new symptoms or the reformation of loose bodies.

See also

• Synovial joint
• Chondromatosis
• Arthroscopy
• Joint disorders