Pigmented villonodular synovitis of the hip joint: Three cases demonstrating characteristic MRI features

Pigmented villonodular synovitis is a rare benign proliferative disease of synovial membranes, causing villonodular synovial hyperplasia and hemosiderin deposition. Its intra-articular forms most commonly affect the knee and less commonly the hip. PVNS of the hip is most common in the second to fifth decades and presentation is typically with pain and occasionally joint dysfunction. We review the existing literature and demonstrate characteristic magnetic resonance imaging features of pigmented villonodular synovitis in the hip joint using three biopsy-proven cases, with the aims of increasing awareness and aiding diagnosis of this rare but potentially debilitating and progressive condition. Recognition of its clinical presentation, appropriate use of magnetic resonance imaging and identification of imaging characteristics are essential to guiding biopsy interpretation and treatment.