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Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis (PVNS)

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What Is Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis (PVNS)?

Pigmented villonodular synovitis, or PVNS, is a benign tumor that occurs in the joints themselves.

It's a progressive disease that affects the joint lining, and — in severe cases — can cause joint destruction. It most often affects the knee, although it can affect other joints as well.

The cause of PVNS is unknown.

PVNS Symptoms

PVNS symptoms include pain and swelling in only one joint.

PVNS Treatment

Treatment of pigmented villonodular synovitis includes surgery to remove the joint lining and the affected area.

Severe cases may require joint replacement surgery. Local recurrence is common.

At UPMC, we're investigating novel medications that may be used with surgery to help decrease morbidity/local recurrence.