Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis eMedicine Radiology

Description: Pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) is a benign proliferative disorder of uncertain etiology that affects synovial lined joints, bursae, and tendon sheaths. The disorder results in various degrees of villous and/or nodular changes in the affected structures. Two primary forms are described, including a diffuse form that affects the entire synovial lining of a joint, bursa, or tendon sheath, and a rare focal, or localized, form. The diffuse form typically involves the large joints, while the localized form typically occurs around the small joints of the hands and feet. The localized form often appears around tendon sheaths, in which case it is termed giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath. Rarely, the localized form may develop around large joints. The term PVNS generally is used when the condition, in either diffuse or localized form, affects a joint. Imaging plays an important role in the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up monitoring of the disorder.
Johnny U V Monu, MD Updated: Jun 21, 2007