Affiliations: [a] Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany | [b] Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, HELIOS-Klinikum Wuppertal, University of Witten/Herdecke, Wuppertal, Germany | [c] Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Annastift Hannover (Medical School Hannover, MHH), Hannover, Germany | [d] Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Ruhr-University of Bochum, Bochum, Germany
Abstract: Background:Adhesive capsulitis (AC) is characterized by a limited active and passive motion. Although the exact pathology remains unknown, a number of contributing factors are discussed. Objective:AC has probably been caused by the Re-PUVA therapy (PUVA irradiation plus acitretin) of a cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, type mycosis fungoides. Acitretin belongs to the group of retinoids and is often used in cornification disorders. Methods:After non-successful initial conservative therapy with intraarticular steroid injections and physical therapy, a significant improvement of shoulder joint mobility was finally achieved by an arthroscopic juxtaglenoid capsulotomy and adhesiolysis. Results:A therapy with acitretin should be considered as a possible trigger of AC. Conclusions:Patient's medication should be checked carefully on possible triggers of AC. The athroscopic adhesiolysis is an effective method for a frustrating conservative treatment of AC.
