PVNS is typically categorized as localized or diffuse.
It is also calledtenosynovialgiant cell tumor when it occurs in a tendon.
While it is often described as a tumor or a neoplasm, it is not usually cancerous.
Verywell / Cindy Chung
This article discusses the symptoms and complications of PVNS.
It also looks at the causes, triggers, diagnosis, and treatment.
PVNS typically affects only one joint, but it can affect more than one joint in some cases.
It does not tend to spread to far-away areas in the body.
Initially, the process may not cause any symptoms at all.
What Causes Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis?
PVNS is brought on by overgrowth and thickening of the synovium.
Triggers
The reason that a person develops PVNS is not known.
A number of genetic abnormalities have been identified within PVNS tumors.
It may also encroach on the bones, potentially causing bone degeneration.
In some instances, the tumor may grow back after the surgery.
Radiation
Sometimes radiation therapy is used to shrink the tumor.
Radiation therapy can be effective in reducing the risk of recurrence in some cases.
Summary
PVNS has been described as a growth or a tumor in the lining of the joint.
While it is accurately labeled as a tumor, it is not cancer and it is not typically life-threatening.
However, PVNS can be destructive to your joints.
Treatment often involves surgery to remove the growth, but may include radiation therapy in some cases.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Pigmented villonodular synovitis.
2017 Aug 8;5(3):184-187. doi: 10.1055/s-0037-1605586.
2016 Jul 19;4(7).
pii: 01874474-201607000-00005. doi: 10.2106/JBJS.RVW.15.00086.
