Abstract

Case: A 59-year-old female with a history of chronic left shoulder pain presented with a chief complaint of a constant, “burning” sensation in the left chest and shoulder region. On MRI, a large cystic structure originating from the biceps tendon was noted. Surgical exploration confirmed a ganglion cyst to be encroaching upon and compressing the brachial plexus and axillary artery against the chest wall. 12 months after resection of the cyst, the patient remains pain-free. Conclusion: Diffuse arm pain can stem from a variety of different pathologies. In this case, timely diagnosis of a unique pathology contributed to resolution of symptoms. Level of Evidence: Level V

Keywords

brachial plexus, ganglion cyst, osteoarthritis, total shoulder arthroplasty, case report