Concurrent arboreal lipoma and synovial chondromatosis in an osteoarthritic knee: Insights from a rare case study — A surgical case report

Abstract

Introduction and importanceConditions mimicking tumors within the knee, such as arborescent lipoma and synovial chondromatosis, are generally benign yet closely linked to inflammatory or degenerative joint diseases. While each condition is commonly documented individually with osteoarthritis, their concurrent presentation within the same knee is extremely rare. This case report adheres to the SCARE 2023 guidelines (Sohrabi et al., 2023) and aims to shed light on the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges posed by the rare coexistence of these conditions, presenting unique management challenges. Case presentationWe detail the case of a 67-year-old woman who has been suffering from progressively worsening bilateral osteoarthritis for over five years, with significant impairment in her right knee. Symptoms included persistent pain unresponsive to standard treatments, reduced mobility, and recurrent swelling. A comprehensive diagnostic evaluation through clinical examination, radiography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suggested tricompartmental osteoarthritis complicated by suspected arborescent lipoma. Surgical exploration not only confirmed the presence of arborescent lipoma but also revealed synovial chondromatosis. Both conditions were validated during total knee arthroplasty via histopathological examination, and the patient demonstrated significant functional recovery 18 months postoperatively. Clinical discussionThe simultaneous occurrence of arborescent lipoma and synovial chondromatosis within an osteoarthritic knee emphasizes the complex nature of diagnosing and managing advanced joint pathologies. This case highlights the critical need for thorough diagnostic processes to differentiate between multiple potential diagnoses and the vital role of surgical intervention in managing such intricate conditions effectively. ConclusionThe rare coexistence of arborescent lipoma and synovial chondromatosis in an osteoarthritic knee underlines the complexities of diagnosing and managing joint diseases. It accentuates the necessity of an exhaustive diagnostic approach and demonstrates the efficacy of surgical management in achieving favorable outcomes. This case supports the need for maintaining a broad differential diagnosis and underscores the value of interdisciplinary collaboration in managing complex joint pathologies.