Tenosynovitis of the hand: a forgotten manifestation of tuberculosis

Abstract

Once the most common form of chronic tenosynovitis of the hand, tenosynovitis due to Mycobacterium tuberculosis has become rare. Descriptions of this clinical entity can no longer be found in medical textbooks. Because of the rarity of this condition, diagnosis is frequently delayed. We present a case and review the presentation, diagnostic criteria, and treatment of tuberculous tenosynovitis. The relation of this infection to antecedent trauma and Dupuytren's contracture is discussed. M. tuberculosis should be considered in patients with chronic or recurrent tenosynovitis.