Intra-Articular Tumors: Diagnosis and Management of the Most Common Neoplasms Involving Synovial Joints

» Intra-articular tumors can be difficult to diagnose and are often mistaken for other non-neoplastic conditions. » It is important to recognize when surgical treatment or nonsurgical treatment is indicated for these tumors. » The importance of distinguishing the more common benign tumors from the more serious malignant conditions cannot be overemphasized. » Although sometimes subtle, warning signs of a malignant process can often be detected when careful analysis of the history, physical examination, and imaging, such as contrast magnetic resonance imaging, is performed. » When imaging and clinical features raise concerns for a possible malignant or more aggressive benign process, patients should be referred to an orthopaedic oncologist for evaluation and management.