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Bilateral knee lipoma arborescens: a case report
C H Yan1, J W K Wong, D K H Yip
1Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong. yanchunhoi@yahoo.com.hk
Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery (Hong Kong)
|May 6, 2008
Summary
Lipoma arborescens, a benign synovial condition, can cause knee swelling and pain, mimicking gout. Magnetic resonance imaging aids in accurate diagnosis and differentiation from other knee pathologies.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Recurrent knee swelling and pain can stem from various intra-articular pathologies.
- Gouty arthritis is a common initial diagnosis for such symptoms.
- Lipoma arborescens is a rare, benign condition characterized by synovial hypertrophy.
Observation:
- A 45-year-old male presented with bilateral knee swelling and pain, initially suspected as gouty arthritis.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed frond-like proliferations of fatty synovium, suggestive of lipoma arborescens.
- Arthroscopic synovectomy was performed for therapeutic intervention.
Findings:
- Histological examination confirmed villiform fatty tissue with thickened synovium, characteristic of lipoma arborescens.
- MRI proved effective in visualizing the characteristic synovial changes.
- The findings highlight the importance of advanced imaging in diagnosing lipoma arborescens.
Implications:
- Accurate differentiation of lipoma arborescens from other intra-articular lesions is crucial for appropriate patient management.
- Magnetic resonance imaging is a valuable tool for diagnosing lipoma arborescens in patients with persistent knee pain and swelling.
- Early and correct diagnosis can prevent misdiagnosis and guide surgical intervention, such as synovectomy.