Definition: De Quervain's tenosynovitis is inflammation of the tendon on the side of the wrist that is located at the base of the thumb. This tendon is referred to as the extensor pollicus longus tendon. De Quervain's tenosynovitis causes pain and tenderness at the side of the wrist. There also may be slight swelling and redness in the area.
De Quervain's tenosynovitis may be caused by repetitive activity, especially if there is pinching with the thumb while moving the wrist. Treatment usually involves taking NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), a local cortisone injection, and splinting. Surgical removal of the inflamed tenosynovium is rare.
Pronunciation: da-cur-vains teno-sin-o-vitis
Common Misspellings: DeQuervains tendinitis
Examples:
She developed De Quervain's tenosynovitis from the repetitive motion of changing diapers for her newborn baby.
