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Pigmented villonodular synovitis developing in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis
1From the Department of Rheumatology, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of TCM, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.
A patient with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) developed pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) in his knee. This case highlights the importance of considering PVNS in RA patients presenting with knee swelling.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Orthopedics
- Oncology
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease primarily affecting joints.
- Pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) is a rare, benign neoplastic proliferation of the synovium.
Observation:
- A 56-year-old male with a history of RA developed new onset right knee pain and swelling.
- Imaging and arthroscopy confirmed PVNS of the knee, occurring 3 years after RA diagnosis and subsequent remission.
Findings:
- This is the first reported case of knee PVNS in a patient with RA in English-language literature.
- The patient successfully underwent surgical resection of the PVNS and had a favorable 1-year follow-up.
Implications:
- This case underscores the necessity of including PVNS in the differential diagnosis of knee effusions in RA patients.
- Distinguishing PVNS from common RA complications like synovial cysts is crucial for appropriate management.
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