Pseudotumor deltoideus: An underreported and misinterpreted cause of shoulder pain

Abstract

Pseudotumor deltoideus refers to focal cortical irregularity and thickening at the deltoid insertion. It is benign in nature with a possible role as a tumor stimulator and possesses various anatomic variations. A well-defined area of cortical irregularity and radiological lucency at the deltoid insertion are uncommon radiological findings that pose a diagnostic dilemma. In this case report, we demonstrate a 45-year-old male with right shoulder pain along with radiological images indicative of the condition to make this previously less discussed entity more understandable. Cases of shoulder pain along with X-ray findings of cortical thickening in the proximal humerus should be investigated further with computed tomography (CT)/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Findings of an elongated lucency on CT and T2 hyperintensity in the cortex should help in the correct diagnosis of the condition. It should not be misdiagnosed as infective foci or a malignant entity and biopsy should be avoided.