Massive subacromial bursitis with rice bodies. Report of three cases, one of which was bilateral

Multiple cartilaginous-like bodies (rice bodies) in joints or bursae may be the presenting sign of a more extensive underlying rheumatic condition. Three patients with massive subacromial bursae with rice bodies are described, one of whom had bilateral occurrence. In all patients, excision of the bursa and rice bodies relieved the symptoms. The underlying rheumatic condition continued its course, generally sparing the involved shoulder joint. Review of these cases reinforces the need to provide a thorough examination for systemic rheumatologic disease in patients diagnosed with this lesion.