Work

Ochronotic Arthropathy of the Shoulder – A Rare Case Report

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: Alkaptonuria is a metabolic disorder due to accumulation of homogentisic acid, leading to destruction of major joints. Very few cases of ochronosis with shoulder involvement have been reported in literature. Case Report: We report a 31-year-old male who presented with shoulder pain for 4 months. Clinical examination and magnetic resonance imaging showed tear of the long head of biceps tendon and labral tear. On arthroscopy, we discovered that there was blackish discoloration of the glenoid rim. On investigating further, homogentisic aciduria was found (865; normal value <0.99), suggesting a diagnosis of alkaptonuria. Our patient had relief of symptoms following debridement and biceps tenodesis at 12 weeks. Conclusion: Arthroscopy helps in the diagnosis and treatment of ochronosis with shoulder involvement.

Source: Journal of Orthopaedic Case Reports

DOI: 10.13107/jocr.2025.v15.i01.5136

Authors: Ayyappan V Nair, Kiran V, Aravind Rajan, Bharath Bharadwaj MS, Manisha Ashwin Daware, Prince Shanavas Khan

Institutions: Manipal Hospital, Apollo Adlux Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Shoulder Injury and Treatment

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $250