Equine Articular Synovial Cysts: 16 Cases

Abstract

Equine articular synovial cysts are rare and can be associated with lameness. The cysts had a synovial lining in all horses where it was assessed. Surgical excision may be successful in resolving the lameness and allowing selected horses to return to work.

Diagnosis and arthroscopic removal of an intra‐articular epidermoid cyst in the distal interphalangeal joint of a 15‐year‐old horse

“…or synovial ganglion cysts (Crawford et al, 2011;Lacourt et al, 2013). (Osteo)chondromatosis is a condition resulting from focal formation of cartilaginous bodies within the synovial capsule that can undergo endochondral ossification (Smith et al, 1995).…”

“…Other synovial soft tissue mass‐like lesions previously reported in horses include chondromatosis, various neoplasms and synovial proliferation caused by septic or non‐septic synovitis. Moreover, fluid‐filled structures associated with joints and tendon sheaths have been described and are classified as synovial cysts (hernias) or synovial ganglion cysts (Crawford et al, 2011; Lacourt et al, 2013). (Osteo)chondromatosis is a condition resulting from focal formation of cartilaginous bodies within the synovial capsule that can undergo endochondral ossification (Smith et al, 1995).…”

Synovial herniation as a complication of arthroscopy in a Thoroughbred yearling

“…; Minshall and Wright ; Lacourt et al . ). The terms have different definitions leading to their use in each particular case, however hernia and cyst are used synonymously (Laverty ).…”

Solving equine distal limb lumps and bumps

“…The case report of a ruptured epidermoid cyst in the distal interphalangeal joint (DIP) is the first intra‐articular epidermoid cyst described in the equine veterinary literature (Hibner‐Szaltys et al, 2023). Articular synovial cysts, also called hernias, have been identified previously in many joints but none to date either in the DIP (Lacourt et al, 2013). The description of the clinical history, presentation, diagnosis, treatment and histopathology of this novel case is valuable as it will inform equine veterinarians if they encounter a similar challenge in the future.…”

“…It was also well defined and, similar to the Hibner‐Szaltys et al case (2023), contained heterogenous echogenic material. In contrast, articular synovial cysts are characterised by an outpouching of anechoic fluid from the joint cavity on ultrasonographic examination, with a canal through the joint capsule and communication with the joint space can be detected (Lacourt et al, 2013). The ultrasonographic description could help veterinarians in the field orient their diagnosis in similar cases.…”