Synovial chondromatosis

Synovial chondromatosis is a locally aggressive bone tumor of the cartilaginous type. Rare and little known, with currently no known cure, the disease gradually forms blisters in the thin flexible membrane of the synovium, which calcify and enlarge. These nodules eventually break free and float around the joint space becoming larger – these add to the discomfort and stiffness of the joint. The affected tissue will show up as a semi solid mass in an MRI scan, final diagnosis is usually confirmed by taking a biopsy. The disease generally affects only one of the larger weight bearing joints (hip, ankle, knee) – although the elbow, and wrist can also be affected. It rarely involves the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and most publications are case reports. Synovial chondromatosis occurs twice as commonly in males as females and usually in their forties. However, online communities for synovial chondromatosis patients have yielded a stark contrast, with equal representation from both genders and members diagnosed as young as late teenage/early 20s. Familial synovial chondromatosis with dwarfism introduces characteristics of dwarfism.

The exact underlying cause of synovial chondromatosis is unknown. Some evidence suggests trauma may play a role in its development as it mainly presents in weight bearing joints. Infection has also been considered as a contributing factor. The condition is not inherited. Synovial chondromatosis can reportedly occur as either a primary or secondary form. Primary synovial chondromatosis, which is more rare, occurs spontaneously and does not appear to relate to any pre existing conditions. Secondary synovial chondromatosis is the more common form and often occurs when there is pre existent osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteonecrosis, osteochondritis dissecans, neuropathic osteoarthropathy (which often occurs in diabetic individuals), tuberculosis, or osteochondral fractures (torn cartilage covering the end of a bone in a joint) in the affected individual.]] Diagnosis is by medical imaging; X ray, CT scan and MRI.

It is also known as Reichel's syndrome or Reichel Jones Henderson syndrome, named after Friedrich Paul Reichel, Hugh Toland Jones and Melvin Starkey Henderson.