Trigger Finger

Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a disorder characterized by catching or locking of the involved finger in full or near full flexion, typically with force. There may be tenderness in the palm of the hand near the last skin crease. The name "trigger finger" may refer to the motion of "catching" like a trigger on a gun. The ring finger and thumb are most commonly affected. The problem is generally idiopathic. There may be an association with diabetes. The pathophysiology is enlargement of the flexor tendon and the A1 pulley of the tendon sheath. While often referred to as a type of stenosing tenosynovitis the pathology is mucoid degeneration. Mucoid degeneration is when fibrous tissue such as tendon has less organized collagen, more abundant extra-cellular matrix, and changes in the cells to act and look more like cartilage cells. Diagnosis is typically based on symptoms and signs after excluding other possible causes.

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