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Flexor tenosynovitis — RCPSC EM MCQ

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ModerateMusculoskeletalFlexor tenosynovitisRCPSC EM

CTAS 3. A 41-year-old gardener has worsening finger pain 2 days after a puncture wound. The finger is held flexed, swollen symmetrically, and pain is severe with passive extension. He is febrile and CRP is elevated. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: B — Pyogenic flexor tenosynovitis

Kanavel signs after penetrating trauma with fever support pyogenic flexor tenosynovitis, a surgical hand emergency.

Reference: Canadian Society for Surgery of the Hand resources; Tintinalli's Emergency Medicine