Synovial chondromatosis is an uncommon metaplastic disease in which foci of ectopic cartilage develop from the synovium.1 Despite the known benign nature of this disease, loose bodies can occur when these osteo-cartilaginous lesions grow and detach from the synovium. This may result in disabling mechanical symptoms as well as accelerated degeneration of the affected joint due to irritation and wear. The symptoms can otherwise be non-specific, with patients complaining of pain, swelling or limitation of motion. It is known that synovial chondromatosis occurs more frequently in men, with increasing frequency during the third to fifth decades of life.2 The disease most commonly affects the knee joint, with the typical location being intra-articular.3,4 Extra-articular involvement of the bursae and tenosynovium is less common.5 Combined intra- and extra-articular involvement of the knee joint is very rare with limited reports in the existing literature.4,6,7 We describe a case of a patient who presented with coexisting intra- and extra-articular synovial chondromatosis of the knee joint and highlight the importance of adequate imaging prior to surgical treatment.
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