Stress-induced osteolysis of the clavicle

Abstract

Osteolysis in the distal clavicle--manifested radiographically by erosions, resorption of the subchondral cortical bone, and an increased space between the acromion and clavicle--may occur in patients who experience repeated stress or microtrauma to the shoulder. This entity has a radiographic appearance similar to posttraumatic osteolysis of the clavicle. One patient with painful shoulders and typical osteolytic changes of the clavicles on radiographs is described, with three other cases reported.