Synovial chondromatosis of the hip joint presenting as a pathological fracture

We describe an unusual case of synovial chondromatosis of the hip joint presenting as a pathological fracture, secondary to pressure erosion of the femoral neck, by the diseased synovium. Synovial chondromatosis is an uncommon condition characterised by cartilaginous metaplasia of the synovial membrane. The cartilaginous bodies so formed may remain attached to the synovium or sequestrate into the joint cavity to form loose bodies (Mclvor and King, 1962). The usual methods of presentation are pain, crepitus, joint swelling, locking, or as a mass lesion (Jeffreys, 1967; Milgram 1977). The diagnosis is usually confirmed on a radiograph, and therefore it is important to recognise the condition as early as possible, so that complications are avoided.