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[Villonodular synovitis--a rare condition causing intermittent locking of the knee]
Summary
Localized villonodular synovitis, a rare benign knee tumor, can mimic meniscal tears or loose bodies. Surgical removal, either arthroscopically or via arthrotomy, is effective for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Pathology
- Radiology
Background:
- Localized villonodular synovitis (LVNS) is a rare, benign neoplastic proliferation of the synovium.
- LVNS can present with symptoms mimicking more common intra-articular pathologies such as meniscal lesions or loose bodies.
- Diagnostic challenges arise due to normal initial radiographic findings.
Observation:
- Two patients presented with intermittent knee locking and a palpable knee joint tumor.
- Initial X-ray examinations did not reveal any abnormalities.
- Arthroscopy identified pedunculated tumors within the knee joint in both cases.
Findings:
- Surgical intervention involved arthroscopic removal in one patient and arthrotomy in the other.
- Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of localized villonodular synovitis (giant-cell tumor) in both patients.
- LVNS is characterized as a benign but uncommon condition.
Implications:
- This case series highlights the importance of considering LVNS in the differential diagnosis of knee locking with a palpable mass, even with normal X-rays.
- Arthroscopic or open surgical excision is the standard treatment for symptomatic LVNS.
- Accurate diagnosis and timely management are crucial for preventing joint damage and ensuring favorable outcomes.