Pigmented villo-nodular synovitis of joints and tendon sheaths

Pigmented villo-nodular synovitis (PVNS) is a rare, benign and aggressive disorder of synovial joints and tendon sheaths which is capable of eroding articular structures and bone. It represents a spectrum of pathological disorders ranging from the most common giant-cell tumour of tendon sheath to localized or diffuse intra-articular PVNS lesions and may be associated with joint erosions. It is best treated surgically but recurs if inadequately excised. Adjunctive therapies include injection of intra-articular radio-isotopic materials and external beam radiotherapy.