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Subacromial-subdeltoid bursitis

Case contributed by Abhinav Ranwaka
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Pain in the left shoulder for 3 months.

Patient Data

Age: 42
Gender: Male

A large fluid collection is noted in the subacromial subdeltoid bursa, containing more than 20 mL. Some debris is also noted in the dependent part of the bursa. This is suggestive of subacromial-subdeltoid bursitis.

Acromiohumeral interval is reduced and measures about 5.5 mm.  The acromion process is type I.

 

Case Discussion

The subacromial-subdeltoid bursa is a large saddle shaped bursa lying between the acromion process, deltoid muscle superiorly, and the rotator cuff and humerus inferiorly. In chronic degenerative inflammatory conditions, the bursa becomes distended with fluid.

One of the commonest causes is subacromial impingement due to reduced acromiohumeral interval.

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