Rupture of the triceps tendon associated with steroid injections.

Am J Sports Med. 1993 May-Jun;21(3):482-5.

Comment in:
    Am J Sports Med. 1995 Nov-Dec;23(6):778.

Rupture of the triceps tendon associated with steroid injections.

Stannard JP, Bucknell AL.

Orthopaedic Surgery Service, Brook Army Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston, Texas.

Rupture of the triceps mechanism is an uncommon injury that has been recognized
with increasing frequency in recent years. It has been proposed that such
injuries commonly accompany fractures of the radial head and must be actively
evaluated in the presence of such a fracture. We present a unique case of
isolated rupture of the triceps tendon in an athlete who was lifting weights.
This case was complicated by a history of olecranon bursitis that had been
treated with numerous local steroid injections, as well as a history of anabolic
steroid abuse. Both systemic steroids and local injections may predispose tendons
to rupture. Triceps tendon ruptures may result in uniformly good to excellent
results if recognized and treated surgically. This case also serves as a reminder
of the risks of treating inflamed tissues with local steroid injections,
especially in strength athletes who place high demands on their musculoskeletal
structures. Finally, this case documents a second case of triceps mechanism
rupture in an athlete who has abused anabolic steroids. A study by Hunter et al.
suggests that oral steroid abuse may be associated with detrimental effects on
the mechanical properties of connective tissue, demonstrating another negative
effect of anabolic steroid use in athletes.