Synovial calcifications associated with long-term steroid therapy for chronic arthritis

Radiologically detected synovial densities may be related to one of several distinct causes. The associated articular appearance may give a clue to the diagnosis. We have described the stippled appearance of innumerable distinct densities in the knees of two patients who had progressive destructive changes associated with long-term steroid therapy. We suggest that prolonged steroid therapy be added to the list of processes associated with diffuse small synovial calcifications.