Unusual Cause of Lateral Elbow Pain: A Case Report of Anconeus Muscle Contusion

Abstract

The anconeus muscle is a small and minor functioning muscle located at the posterolateral elbow region. It helps forearm extension and tightening of the joint capsule. Despite its limited functions, pathologies of the anconeus muscle can mimic other abnormalities of the elbow joint. Here, we report a rare case of a traumatic anconeus muscle contusion in a 15-year-old boy due to falling during dance. MRI showed contusion in the anconeus muscle, as well as strain in the ulnar collateral ligament and edema in the coronoid process of the ulna. To our knowledge, this is the first described case of traumatic anconeus muscle contusion in the literature. The presence of long-lasting lateral elbow pain in trauma cases without fracture should alert clinicians to consider anconeus muscle abnormalities. MRI is the best modality for diagnosis in these cases.