De Quervain’s tenosynovitis as an occupational disease in agricultural worker: A case report

Abstract

BACKGROUND: De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is upper-limb disorder, more frequent in women. It is rarely recognized as an occupational disease. OBJECTIVE: In this paper we reported work related de Quervain’s tenosynovitis in cow milker. METHODS: Ergonomic risk factors were assessed by utilizing assessment of repetitive tasks (ART) of the upper limbs method. Physical examination and imaging exams were used. RESULTS: We presented a 36-year-old female agricultural worker (workplace cow milker) exposed to work factors (forceful hand/wrist exertions, repetition, extreme postures) for 14 years. She was suffering the pain in the right hand, mainly near the thumb for few years. She was treated conservatively and surgically, however disability was permanent. Clinical examination showed slight edema of the right hand, increased palm’s sweating. Patient had reduced range of movements and grip strength. CONCLUSIONS: Report shows that work-related factors were strongly associated with diagnosed de Quervain’s tenosynovitis. Hand function plays an essential role in carrying out activities of daily living and this disorder pose a relevant burden of disease. Exposure to biomechanical factors should be an important initial target for the prevention of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis in the working population.