Two paleopathological cases suggestive of paralabral cysts of the shoulder

Objective

To undertake differential diagnosis of scapular bone defects found in two medieval skeletons buried in different necropoles of Friuli Venezia Giulia (Italy) and to evaluate the clinical significance of paralabral cysts in the context of shoulder pathology.

Materials

Individual JoT36 is an adult male exhumed from a necropolis belonging to a rural agricultural settlement dated to the 10th to 11th century A.D. Individual CIVT58 is an adult male from a Langobard necropolis dated to 630–670 A.D.

Methods

Macroscopic examination of the skeletons was performed using standard osteological methods and review of pertinent clinical literature to assist differential diagnosis.

Results

Between the glenoid cavity and the spinoglenoid notch of the right scapula of JoT36 there is a multilocular circular defect adjacent to the glenoid rim. On the neck of the left scapula of CIVT58, immediately above the spinoglenoid notch, there is a unilocular circular depression. In both cases, the cortical bone appears smooth without any evidence of erosion or sclerosis.

Conclusions

Skeletal findings and historical/archaeological contexts of both cases are compatible with the diagnosis of paralabral cysts.

Significance

Paralabral cysts are relatively frequently observed in clinical settings but very few examples have been documented in paleopathological literature. This study seeks to improve recognition and interpretation of this pathology in historical/archaeological contexts.

Limitations

Findings from a case report can neither generate epidemiological information nor be generalized.

Suggestions for further research

Identification of new cases may add valuable information about lifestyles and related shoulder pathologies in ancient times.