skip to main content

Flexor tenosynovitis — ABEM Board MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateMusculoskeletal/Orthopedic emergenciesFlexor tenosynovitisABEM Board

A 38-year-old woman arrives 2 days after a puncture wound to the index finger. Triage acuity is ESI 3; T 100.7 F, HR 104/min. The finger is held in slight flexion, is fusiformly swollen, and is tender along the flexor tendon sheath. Passive extension causes severe pain. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Pyogenic flexor tenosynovitis

Kanavel signs after penetrating injury indicate pyogenic flexor tenosynovitis, a hand emergency.

Reference: Emergency hand infection guidance