Evaluation of Adhesive Capsulitis of the Shoulder with Fat-Suppressed T2-Weighted MRI: Association between Clinical Features and MRI Findings

Abstract

dhesive capsulitis (AC) of the shoulder is a common condition with an incidence in the general population varying considerably from 2 to 5.3% for primary and from 4.3to 38% for secondary AC. Although spontaneous resolution is the rule, years can ensue (mean 18-30 months) before joint mobility returns to normal. It is characterized by gradual and progressive onset of shoulder pain and limited active and passive range of motion (ROM) in the shoulder. in the past the diagnostic terminology for this entiry, such as "frozen shoulder", was ambigious and based on clinical features and symptoms, medical history, and physical examination. However, the disease presents with characteristic pathophysiology features, including capsular thickening and fibrosis due to chronic inflammation of the joint capsule, which may lead to capsular adhesion. Given that other diseases of the shoulder such as rotator cuff tears, bursitis and calcified tendinitis, may have similar clinical symptoms. MRI is useful for differentiating AC from other diseases. MRI offers better resolution and soft tissue contrast than other methods and is a key modality for differentiating shoulder diseases. Based on previous studies that used MRI, the key diagnostic findings for AC include capsular thi