Osteochondromatosis, synovial

A disorder of a joint featuring a change of the normal joint lining (synovium) tissue's cellular structure to form bone-cartilage tissue. Synovial osteochondromatosis is uncommon. It typically presents in young to middle-aged adults. Synovial osteochondromatosis leads to pain in the affected joint as well as limitation of the range of motion and often locking. The cause of synovial osteochondromatosis is not known. Synovial osteochondromatosis generally affects only a single joint. The most common joints involved are the knee, hip, or elbow. Synovial osteochondromatosis can be diagnosed by an imaging test of the joint, such as an x-ray, CAT scan, or MRI scan. Treatment of synovial osteochondromatosis typically involves surgical removal of the joint lining tissue. When bone-like calcium-containing tissue is also produced in the abnormal joint lining, the condition is referred to as synovial osteochondromatosis.