Synovial chondromatosis is a condition characterized by the formation of multiple foci of cartilage in the synovial membrane of a joint. It also occurs in bursae and tendon sheaths.
When the cartilage is ossified, the condition is called synovial osteochondromatosis.
This is a benign condition and is very rare in occurrence. It usually occurs in persons over 40 years of age and occasionally in adolescents. It is twice as common in the males as in the females.
The cause of the condition is unknown. Trauma has been postulated as a possible stimulus that causes conversion of synovial cells in cartilage cells.
The knee is the commonest site. Other joints involved in in order of frequency of involvement are the hip, ankle, elbow, and wrist.
Pathology
The synovium gets thickened and is studded by innumerable small, firm, flat or slightly raised grayish white nodules. These may get detached from the affected membrane and enter the joint cavity as loose bodies.
Histology reveals foci of cartilaginous metaplasia of the synovium.
Presentation
Clinical complaints consist of pain, swelling, and stiffness of the affected joint. Losse bodies may also cause locking of the joint. Months or years may elapse before a patient seeks treatment.
On examination, the synovial membrane is thickened and palpable as doughy swelling. The joint is stiff and range ofmotion is reduced.a
Crepitus and loose bodies may be a finding in some cases.
Radiograms show multiple areas of stippled calcification in and around the affected joint when the lesion is cartilaginous. Capsular distension and synovial thickening may be evident.
Treatment
- Removal of the loose bodies
- Partial synovectomy.
The condition has a definite tendency to resolution.
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