Mycobacterial Tenosynovitis of the Flexor Tendons of the Hand

Abstract

We present five cases of mycobacterial tenosynovitis of the flexor tendons of the fingers. These cases were observed during the last 12 years and treated by the same surgeon. This pathology is uncommon now, but it is becoming more frequent, especially in patients with diminished immunity. The diagnosis was most commonly made after synovectomy in patients presenting with carpal tunnel syndrome associated with slightly painful swelling at the wrist. Histological and bacteriological examinations are very important and revealed tuberculosis in four of our patients and mycobacterium in one, and the treatment consists of synovectomy and appropriate antibiotics. The functional result is usually good, but recurrence is not uncommon. Long-term follow-up is necessary. Local corticosteroid therapy could have a part in the causation of this condition.