[Pigmented villonodular synovitis of the hip--diagnosis and therapy of an invasive disease].

In the diffuse form of pigmented villonodular synovitis, the transformed synovia invades local bone and cartilage, leading to destruction of the osseous and cartilage tissue. Secondary osteoarthritis and ultimately joint destruction is a result. Malignant development is under discussion. The knee is the most frequently involved joint, followed by involvement of the hip, which is well documented in several studies. This paper introduces a case of pigmented villonodular synovitis involving the hip. Its general diagnostic features and treatment options are introduced and discussed, including the role of reconstructive joint surgery in advanced cases of PVS. The key function of early diagnosis and treatment resulting in joint-salvaging procedures is emphasized.