Trigger Finger: An Unusual Clue to Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

Cureus. 2024 Oct 9;16(10):e71143. doi: 10.7759/cureus.71143. eCollection 2024 Oct.

Abstract

Stenosing flexor tenosynovitis, commonly known as trigger finger (TF), is characterized by thickening and inflammation of the flexor tendon sheath (A1 pulley), leading to painful catching or locking of the finger in a flexed position. While often associated with conditions like diabetes and hypothyroidism, this case report presents a unique instance where surgical intervention for pharmacologically resistant TF ultimately led to the diagnosis of Hashimoto's thyroiditis. This case highlights the potential for underlying systemic conditions to manifest as TF and emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic approach in patients with persistent or atypical presentations.

Keywords: autoimmune disease; orthopaedic hand surgery; patient safety based medical education; trigger finger disorder; hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports