A case report of bilateral synovial chondromatosis of the ankle

Heather Shearer¹ , Paula Stern¹ , Andrew Brubacher² and Tania Pringle³

¹Department of Graduate Education and Research, Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Toronto, Canada

²Private practice, Brooklin, Canada

³Department of Radiology, Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Toronto, Canada

author email corresponding author email

Chiropractic & Osteopathy 2007, 15:18doi:10.1186/1746-1340-15-18


Published:	24 November 2007

Abstract

Background

Synovial chondromatosis is a rare, generally benign condition which affects synovial membranes. It most commonly involves large joints such as the knee, hip, and elbow, but its presence in smaller joints has also been reported. The diagnosis of synovial chondromatosis is commonly made following a thorough history, physical examination, and radiographic examination. Patients may report pain and swelling within a joint which is often aggravated with physical activity.

Case presentation

A rare case of bilateral synovial chondromatosis of the ankle is reviewed. A 26 year-old male presented with chronic bilateral ankle pain. Physical examination suggested and imaging confirmed multiple synovial chondromatoses bilaterally, likely secondary to previous trauma.

Conclusion

The clinical and imaging findings, along with potential differential diagnoses, are described. Since this condition tends to be progressive but self-limiting, indications for surgery depend on the level of symptomatic presentation in addition to the functional demands of the patient. Following a surgical consultation, it was decided that it was not appropriate to pursue surgery at the present time.