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About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Kate Grossman, MD

Definition: De Quervain's tenosynovitis is inflammation of the tendon on the side of the wrist 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 beneath the base of the thumb. Sometimes there is slight swelling and redness in the area.

De Quervain's tenosynovitis may be caused by repetitive activity which involves pinching with the thumb while moving the wrist. Treatment usually involves taking NSAIDS, 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.