Acute distal biceps rupture in an adolescent weightlifter on chronic steroid suppression: a case report

J Pediatr Orthop B. 2016 Sep;25(5):447-9. doi: 10.1097/BPB.0000000000000328.

Abstract

Distal biceps tendon ruptures are uncommon events in the adult population and exceedingly rare in the adolescent population. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first and only report of a distal biceps tendon rupture in an adolescent with a history of chronic corticosteroid suppression. We present a case of a 17-year-old male on chronic corticosteroid suppression who underwent a successful distal biceps tendon repair after an acute rupture following weightlifting. At the 1-year follow-up, the patient reports full range of motion and strength, and is able to return to his preinjury activity level with sports and weightlifting. Acute distal biceps ruptures are uncommon injuries in the pediatric population, but may occur in conjunction with chronic corticosteroid use. Anatomic repair, when possible, can restore function and strength.

Level of evidence: level IV, case report.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / adverse effects*
  • Arm Injuries
  • Elbow Injuries
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Muscle, Skeletal / physiopathology*
  • Muscle, Skeletal / surgery
  • Range of Motion, Articular
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Rupture / diagnosis*
  • Rupture / surgery
  • Tendon Injuries / diagnosis*
  • Tendon Injuries / surgery
  • Tendons
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Weight Lifting

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones