What is De Quervain's tenosynovitis?

a common condition in which the sheath containing the extensor pollicis brevis and abductor pollicis longus tendons is inflamed

What patient groups is De Quervain's tenosynovitis most common?

females aged 30 - 50 years old

What are the main clinical features of De Quervain's tenosynovitis?

• pain on the radial side of the wrist
• tenderness over the radial styloid process
• abduction of the thumb against resistance is painful

What is the management of De Quervain's tenosynovitis?

• analgesia
• steroid injection
• immobilisation with a thumb splint (spica) may be effective
• surgical treatment is sometimes required