The advances in diagnostic modalities of disorders of the long head of the biceps tendon – review

Abstract

The broad spectrum of disorders of the long head of the biceps (LHBT) can be divided into 3 main categories: inflammatory reactions, degenerative conditions, and instability. More than 90% of patients with LHB tendinopathy have an additional shoulder pathology. Thus, a detailed radiological and histopathological evaluation is crucial for a complete and accurate diag- nosis. The pathology of the LHBT starts from its ultrastructure with the alterations of both tenocytes and extracellular matrix. Furthermore, this is reflected in the light microscopy investigation, with marginal inflammatory response. The ultrasonogra- phy is useful in the detection of LHBT instability, hypoechogenic areas, increased powinny być jednocześnie stosowane w ocenie patologii ścięgna bicepsa.