Synovitt

Synovitt is the term used in several languages, including Swedish, for synovitis, the inflammation of the synovial membrane that lines joints and tendon sheaths. It can affect a single joint or multiple joints and may be acute or chronic.

Patients typically present with joint swelling, warmth, pain and stiffness, especially with movement. An effusion may be palpable, and range of motion can be reduced.

Causes include infection (septic arthritis), autoimmune or inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, crystal deposition diseases like gout or pseudogout, and mechanical factors from injury or overuse. Reactive synovitis can follow infection elsewhere or trauma.

Diagnosis combines clinical assessment with imaging and laboratory tests. Ultrasound or MRI can show synovial thickening or fluid. Blood tests may reveal raised inflammatory markers. Joint aspiration (arthrocentesis) provides synovial fluid for cell count, Gram stain and culture, and crystal analysis to distinguish infection from inflammatory or crystal-induced arthritis.

Treatment targets the underlying cause and symptom relief. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and rest or immobilization may help; corticosteroid injections into the joint or short courses of systemic steroids are common. Antibiotics are required for septic synovitis; disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs may be used for chronic inflammatory conditions. Physical therapy can aid recovery, and surgical drainage is rarely needed for persistent effusion.

Prognosis depends on cause and promptness of treatment. Early management of septic synovitis is critical to prevent cartilage damage and joint loss.