Milwaukee shoulder syndrome: an acutely swollen joint
Patel, Serena Ellen West, Holly Isobel Elizabeth Piper, Danielle Goude, William
Patel, Serena Ellen
West, Holly Isobel Elizabeth
Piper, Danielle
Goude, William
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Affiliation
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust; Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust
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Publication date
2025-09-30
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Abstract
Milwaukee shoulder syndrome (MSS) is a rare crystal arthropathy associated with rapid joint destruction and notable morbidity.A female in her 80s presented to a district general hospital with a 2-week history of acute-on-chronic left shoulder pain. Examination revealed widespread left shoulder reduced range of movement, and plain X-ray and CT imaging showed global left humeral head destruction with a large joint effusion. Once other differentials, including septic arthritis and osteosarcoma, had been excluded, this patient was managed conservatively with analgesia, physiotherapy and a collar and cuff sling.Literature regarding MSS is scarce, and awareness of this diagnosis is even more so. But with the impact of reduced joint function on independence and quality of life, this syndrome is not one to miss. This case report aims to educate the reader about the importance of MSS as a rare differential in an acutely swollen, painful joint.
Citation
Patel SE, West HIE, Piper D, Goude W. Milwaukee shoulder syndrome: an acutely swollen joint. BMJ Case Rep. 2025 Sep 30;18(9):e266425. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2025-266425. PMID: 41033695.
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Article