[The snapping scapula as a sympton of a tumor in the scapulothoracic region]

The snapping scapula syndrome is a grating sensation located in the scapulothoracic region that appears with movement.This sign is occasionally related to tumors.

To show the high incidence of this relationship (clinical sign-tumor), and to be aware of it when performing a differential diagnosis.

Retrospective study of the elastofibromas dorsi (ED) and scapular osteochondromas (SO), which may have presented with the sign under study in our center over the last 17 years (1993-2009). Thirty-seven ED and 6 SO were identified. The series was divided into group A (ED) and group B (SO). Mean follow-up was 7 years. The cohorts are made up of 23 women and 4 men with a mean age of 57 years (42-78) in group A, there were 2 women and 4 men with a mean age of 20 years (11-28) in group B. Action was taken to identify the initial medical sign at diagnosis, the treatment carried out, and the outcome.

Around 21% of these tumors are reported to be associated with physical activity. The initial symptom was a painful mass in 81% of the patients, followed by a scapular snapping or clicking in 30 out of the 43 patients (70%). The treatment of choice was resection in both groups. A noticeable improvement in terms of pain was seen (VAS 7.5 preoperatively, 2.8 postoperatively).

The presence of snapping scapula has a strong relationship to tumors of the scapulothoracic region. Therefore it is important to be aware of this.