SYNOVIAL CHONDROMATOSIS OF THE DISTAL RADIOULNAR JOINT - A CASE-REPORT

The most definitive method for confirming the diagnosis of synovial ch ondromatosis is the identification of cartilaginous metaplasia within the synovium on histologic examination. In advanced stages of the dise ase, plain radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans demo nstrate calcified and cartilaginous bodies, respectively, but in earli er stages, plain radiographic findings may be normal and MRI scans may reveal only nonspecific increased fluid. Although rare in the wrist, synovial chondromatosis must be considered in the differential diagnos is in a patient presenting with pain and swelling of the distal radiou lnar joint. Surgical exploration of the joint and synovectomy, alone o r in combination with removal of loose bodies, is the recommended trea tment.