Colchicine Therapy for Glenohumeral Osteoarthritis: A Case Report

Abstract

Osteoarthritis management primarily focuses on targeting pain. Conventional modalities for pain management include acetaminophen, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and intra-articular corticosteroid injections. However, these approaches may provide minimal pain relief and can be contraindicated for some patients, highlighting the ongoing need for alternative pain management. Colchicine, commonly used in the management of gout, has emerged as a potential option for pain management in osteoarthritis. There are implications of colchicine use for knee and hand osteoarthritis but remains inconclusive. In this context, we present a case of a 68-year-old diabetic woman with glenohumeral osteoarthritis and associated right shoulder pain. Due to minimal pain relief from previous treatments, the patient was given a combination trial of colchicine and acetaminophen for three months. After completion of this treatment, the patient experienced significant pain relief and improved functionality. The aim of this case is to highlight the efficacy of colchicine as a possible treatment option for managing shoulder pain in osteoarthritis.

Keywords: colchicine treatment; glenohumeral osteoarthritis; gout disease; medication for pain management; shoulder joint pain.

Figure 1. Coronal T1-weighted MRI without contrast

Thickening of the supraspinatus tendon and intrasubstance signal consistent with tendinopathy is shown, along with partial-thickness articular surface tear of the supraspinatus and delamination of tendon fibers (yellow arrow). Subacromial bone spur and hypertrophic changes are seen (orange arrow).

Figure 2. Axial MRI without contrast

Chondral thinning of the humeral head (orange arrow). Full-thickness cartilage loss at the posterior inferior glenoid and subchondral cystic change is also noted (yellow arrow).