How is synovial chondromatosis diagnosed?
Imaging tests will also help your doctor differentiate synovial chondromatosis from osteoarthritis. X-rays. X-rays provide images of dense structures, such as bone. Larger loose bodies are usually calcified or ossified and can be seen on X-ray.
What is primary synovial chondromatosis?
Primary synovial chondromatosis represents an uncommon benign neoplastic process in which hyaline cartilage nodules form in subsynovial tissue of the joint, tendon sheath, or bursa. These nodules may subsequently enlarge and detach to lie within the joint space.
What is primary synovial chondromatosis of the hip?
Primary synovial osteochondromatosis of the hip joint is a rare condition. It is characterized by the presence of multiple intra-articular loose bodies and can result in mechanical symptoms, even causing degenerative change. Surgical treatment is indicated for synovial osteochondromatosis of the hip joint.
What causes synovial chondromatosis?
The exact underlying cause of synovial chondromatosis is unknown. Some research suggests that trauma may play a role in its development because the condition primarily occurs in weight-bearing joints. Infection has also been considered as a contributing factor. The condition is not inherited .
Can synovial chondromatosis spread?
While synovial chondromatosis is non-cancerous and doesn’t spread into other parts of the body, it should be treated, otherwise, if left alone, the condition can worsen, leading to osteoarthritis (degenerative joint condition).
How common is synovial chondromatosis?
Synovial chondromatosis occurs most commonly in the fifth decade of life, it is rarely present before the age of 20, and it is very rare in children. Reference to both primary form (no evidence of concurrent joint pathology) and secondary form (occurring in the setting of joint degeneration) is made in the literature.
Is synovial chondromatosis a disability?
Synovial chondromatosis typically presents with large joint effusion(s), and joints may appear deformed due to swelling or synovial hypertrophy. Synovial chondromatosis can result in severe disability and dysfunction. However, most cases are benign and this condition rarely undergoes malignant transformation.
Is synovial chondromatosis curable?
The disease is rare and little known and there is currently no known cure. The affected tissue will show up as a semi-solid mass in an MRI scan, final diagnosis is usually confirmed by taking a biopsy. Synovial chondromatosis occurs twice as commonly in males as females and usually in their forties.