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Imaging of pigmented villonodular synovitis
1Department of Radiology, Veterans Administration of Greater Los Angeles/UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA.
Seminars in Musculoskeletal Radiology
|November 1, 2003
Summary
Pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) is a rare joint disorder causing villous or nodular growths. Magnetic resonance imaging is key for diagnosing PVNS by detecting hemosiderin deposits.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) is a rare, benign, idiopathic proliferative disorder of the synovium.
- It manifests as villous and/or nodular formation in joints, tendon sheaths, and bursae, presenting as localized or diffuse disease.
- Clinical presentation ranges from mild discomfort and stiffness to broader symptoms, making diagnosis challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the presentation, pathology, and differential diagnosis of PVNS.
- To highlight diagnostic modalities for PVNS, emphasizing the role of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging.
- To review various treatment options available for PVNS.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentations and pathological features of PVNS.
- Evaluation of diagnostic imaging techniques, particularly MR imaging.
- Analysis of treatment strategies for localized and diffuse PVNS.
Main Results:
- Plain radiographs are often nonspecific in diagnosing PVNS.
- Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is highly diagnostic, especially when hemosiderin deposits show low signal intensity.
- PVNS diagnosis requires a comprehensive approach considering clinical, pathological, and radiological findings.
Conclusions:
- PVNS diagnosis can be clinically difficult, necessitating advanced imaging like MR.
- MR imaging's ability to detect hemosiderin is crucial for characterizing PVNS.
- Understanding PVNS presentation, pathology, and diagnostic tools is essential for effective management.