Synovial Chondromatosis Introduction Synovial chondromatosis is classified as either primary or secondary.
Synovial Chondromatosis Synovial chondromatosis is classified as either primary or secondary. Primary synovial chondromatosis is less common and occurs with no cause or known injury to the cartilage or synovium. A secondary synovial chondromatosis is more common and occurs in the setting of cartilage damage commonly found in osteoarthritis and osteochondritis dissecans.
The chondromatosis occurs when a portion of cartilage becomes separated from the articular cartilage and then detaches and forms a loose body. Primary synovial chondromatosis is considered a benign neoplastic process based on histologic samples. It is not common for primary synovial chondromatosis to have a malignant transformation to chondrosarcoma.
Example of synovial chondromatosis on xray Milgram has classified synovial chondromatosis into three phases. The first phase involves synovitis with no loose bodies, the second is loose bodies and synovitis, and the third phase is multiple loose bodies and no synovitis. The knee joint is most commonly affected and then followed by hip, elbow, wrist, and ankle.
The loose bodies can be found inside the joint capsule, but also in a bursa or tendon sheath. Synovial chondromatosis is most commonly detected in male patients in their 30s to 50s. Diagnosis Patients can present with a wide variety of symptoms with synovial chondromatosis.
They may complain of nonspecific joint swelling, joint pain, and/or restriction in joint range of motion. In more severe cases, patients may complain of joint locking. Physical exam findings can include detection of an effusion, joint pain to palpation, crepitus in the joint, and a palpable nodule.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to synovial chondromatosis review, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
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