Synovial sarcoma of the elbow presenting with painful stiffness: a case report. (October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nevin, Jennifer L; King, Graham JW
• Is Part Of: Shoulder & elbow. Volume 13:Number 6(2021)
• Page Start: 677
• Page End: 682
• Publication Date: 2021-10
• Subjects: Elbow -- stiffness -- contracture -- synovial sarcoma -- soft tissue sarcoma; Elbow -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Elbow -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Shoulder -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Shoulder -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Shoulder -- Periodicals; Elbow -- Periodicals; Shoulder Joint -- Periodicals; Elbow Joint -- Periodicals; 617.572005
• DOI: 10.1177/1758573220972074
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1758-5732

Abstract

Elbow stiffness is a challenging problem for the upper extremity surgeon to treat. It can significantly impact the patient's function in activities of daily living. While the most common etiologies are post-traumatic or secondary to arthritis, a large variety of etiologies should be considered with atypical presentations. It is important that the upper-extremity surgeon have a systematic approach to the diagnosis and management of elbow contracture in order to ensure malignant processes are considered. We present an unusual case of a young patient with atraumatic, non-arthritic elbow stiffness whose underlying diagnosis was a synovial sarcoma, as well as a review of the literature and differential for elbow stiffness. Level of evidence: IV.