The Importance of Precise Imaging in Villonodular Synovitis of the Hip: A Radiology Case Report

Abstract

Villonodular synovitis (VS) is a rare condition classified as a benign proliferative disorder of the synovium. An increasing number of cases describe nonspecific symptoms and diagnosis remains a challenge in corectly assessing the disease. We report the case of a 17-year-old patient that presents with persistent and worsening joint pain of the left hip, unresponsive to medication. A radiography, CT-scan (8-slice, 1G) and MRI (Philips 1 Tesla) are performed for imaging purposes. MRI findings include an intra-articular mass seen as a low to medium signal intensity heterogenous image. MRI combined with CT remains the most accurate imaging solution to diagnose such disease and particular attention is needed to correctly assess VS.