The patient presented with a persistent dull pain in the right shoulder, exacerbated by abduction and external rotation. His habits included regular workout with weight lifting. History was negative. Clinical evaluation suggested a rotator cuff injury.
The patient presented with a persistent dull pain in the right shoulder, exacerbated by abduction and external rotation. His habits included regular workout with weight lifting. History was negative. Clinical evaluation suggested a rotator cuff injury.
An MRI examination was performed with SE T1-weighted, SE T2-weighted/PDW, TSE T2-weighted/SPIR and SE T1-weighted plus IV Gd-DTPA sequences in axial, oblique coronal, and oblique sagittal planes. An oval cystic lesion, 2cm in diameter, was found in a paraglenoid position under the suprapinatus muscle. The lesion was of low signal intensity in T1-weighted sequences and of high signal intensity in T2-weighted sequences. There was no enhancement after IV Gd-DTPA administration. There was a concomitant SLAP II tear of the glenoid labrum. The supraspinatus tendon showed evidence of degenerative changes. A surgical excision of the cyst was performed. The extent of the SLAP tear was found found to be in aggreement with the MR imaging findings.
Glenoid labral cysts, also known as paralabral ganglion cysts, contain joint fluid and are most often found in or about the scapular notch [1]. In this location they may cause entrapment of the suprascapular nerve [2-5], which supplies nerve fibres to both the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles. Extrinsic pressure on the suprascapular nerve will cause pain and impairment of joint movements. Chronic nerve entrapment can lead to severe atrophic changes of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles. A close relation exists between a paralabral cyst and the presence of a labral tear, most commonly a SLAP II tear [2]. Most researchers maintain that the pathogenesis of the cysts is via a leakage of joint fluid in the surrounding tissue planes through a tear of the glenoid labrum or the joint capsule, a mechanism analogous to the formation of meniscal cysts.
Glenoid labral cyst with a SLAP II tear
Based on the provided MRI images, a cystic lesion can be observed around the glenoid rim of the shoulder joint, appearing as high signal intensity on T2-weighted sequences with a well-defined cystic nature (as seen in both sagittal and axial views). The lesion is adjacent to the glenoid labrum, where mild irregularity or signs of labral tear may be present. The cyst is located near the suprascapular notch, potentially exerting pressure on the suprascapular nerve passing through this area. The affected region is close to the supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons, but there is no obvious evidence of a complete tendon rupture. The rotator cuff tendons may exhibit mild abnormal signal, suggesting tendon wear or a partial tear.
Considering the 18-year-old male patient’s shoulder pain during abduction and external rotation, the MRI findings of a cystic lesion around the glenoid and possible labral tear, as well as signs of compression in the suprascapular nerve region, the most likely diagnosis is: “Glenoid labrum tear with a paralabral cyst (Paralabral cyst), possibly accompanied by mild rotator cuff injury.” If the exact location and extent of the cyst and labral tear need further clarification, additional shoulder arthrography or arthroscopic evaluation may be considered.
Taking into account the patient’s young age, interest in weight training, and imaging findings suggesting a labral tear and paralabral cyst with possible nerve compression, treatment can be divided into:
Rehabilitation Training (FITT-VP Principle):
1. Frequency: 3–4 times per week of shoulder stability and control training.
2. Intensity: Start with light resistance (e.g., resistance bands, small dumbbells) and gradually increase the load, avoiding pain.
3. Time: Each session should last 20–30 minutes, including warm-up and cool-down.
4. Type: Focus on resistance training for the muscles around the shoulder (especially the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and scapular stabilizers), joint mobilization techniques, and proprioception exercises. Gradually increase the angle of shoulder abduction and external rotation.
5. Volume & Progression: Gradually increase resistance and range of motion based on pain and muscle strength recovery. Conduct a phase assessment every 2–4 weeks to adjust training. Avoid sudden increases in load to prevent secondary injuries.
Precautions:
- In the presence of any acute inflammation or significant worsening of pain, reduce or suspend training and consult a physician.
- If there is notable weakness or persistent nocturnal pain, early MRI or arthroscopic evaluation is recommended.
- Maintain good posture and proper alignment of the shoulder joint to avoid excessive compensation that may harm other structures.
This report is solely a reference-based medical analysis derived from the current imaging and clinical information. It cannot replace in-person medical consultation or professional medical advice. If you have any questions or if your condition changes, please consult a healthcare professional and follow their guidance.
Glenoid labral cyst with a SLAP II tear