Calcific tendinitis of the biceps-labral complex: a rare cause of acute shoulder pain

Acta Orthop Belg. 2008 Jun;74(3):401-4.

Abstract

Calcific tendinitis most commonly affects the rotator cuff and has not been previously reported affecting the biceps-labral complex. We report a case of calcific tendinitis of the biceps-labral complex attachment, a rare cause of acute, severe shoulder pain. Clinically, it can be misdiagnosed as supraspinatus tendinitis or septic arthritis of the shoulder joint. Non-operative treatment failed to resolve the symptoms. Arthroscopic debridement of the calcific deposit resulted in resolution of symptoms. Knowledge of this clinical condition and its imaging features is crucial for a correct diagnosis of this uncommon cause of shoulder pain.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Calcinosis / complications*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Shoulder Pain / etiology*
  • Tendinopathy / complications*