Sternocostoclavicular Joint Swelling; Diagnosis of a Neglected Entity

Document Type : RESEARCH PAPER

Authors

1 Department of Orthopaedics, PMR Block, Jawaharlal Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, India

2 Department of Biochemistry, JIPMER, Puducherry, India

3 Department of Orthopaedics, JIPMER, Puducherry, India

Abstract

Background: 
 Sternocostoclavicular joint (SCCJ) swelling is an underdiagnosed, albeit important entity in clinical practice. The present study was conducted in order to identify the incidence and common causes of this entity. 
 Methods: 
 Patients presenting to the Orthopaedic Clinic with a swelling of the sternocostoclavicular joint, during the study period of two years were included, and detailed history was obtained from the patient. Baseline investigations (total and differential leukocyte count, ESR, CRP, X-ray and CT) wereperformed. Magnetic resonance imaging,FNAC or joint aspiration was performed whenever clinically or radiologically indicated. 
 Results:  
 A total of 21 patients were enrolled into the study for a duration of 2 years. Patients mainly presented with both pain and swelling of the SCCJ with predominant right sided involvement. Osteoarthritis was the most frequent diagnosis followed by infections, primary bone/cartilage tumor, and metastasis. 
 Conclusions: 
 Although most of the patients with SCCJ swelling have a benign etiology, it is not wise to dismiss thisswelling as degenerative changes. Serious conditions like septic arthritis or neoplasia, may masquerade with similar presentations such as osteoarthritis. It would be therefore imperative to rule out all of these potentially life threatening conditions using thorough clinic-radiological workups. 
  

Keywords

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History

  • Receive Date: 14 November 2014
  • Revise Date: 05 January 2015
  • Accept Date: 26 January 2015

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