Tenosynovitis
Definition
Tenosynovitis is inflammation of the lining of the sheath that surrounds a tendon (the cord that joins muscle to bone).
Alternative Names
Inflammation of the tendon sheath
Causes
The synovium is a lining of the protective sheath that covers tendons. Tenosynovitis refers to inflammation of this sheath. The cause of the inflammation may be unknown, or it may result from injury, overuse, strain, or infection. The wrists, hands, and feet are areas that are commonly affected, although it may occur with any tendon sheath.
Note: A laceration to the hands or wrists that results in infection that causes tenosynovitis may be an emergency that requires surgery.
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