Our study echoes the findings of previous studies that suggest a relationship between intramuscular cysts and full- and partial-thickness rotator cuff tears but illustrates that the incidence of an isolated intramuscular cyst is higher than previously expected. When intramuscular cysts present with rotator cuff tears, they present with full- and partial-thickness rotator cuff tears in relatively equal proportions. The presence of an intramuscular cyst on MRI, although it may be an isolated finding, should prompt a thorough search of all the rotator cuff tendons for tears so that the patient may receive appropriate follow-up.
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