Tests
1st tests to order
high-resolution ultrasound scan
Test
Ultrasonography can be used to diagnose both sterile and purulent tenosynovitis, as well as a number of other hand and wrist pathologies. Improvements in high-resolution ultrasound are producing increasingly high-quality images of superficial structures, expanding the indications for this imaging modality in the hand and wrist.[37][38][39]
Result
effusion, tendon sheath thickening, hyperemia
Tests to consider
plain radiograph of affected hand and wrist
Test
Not indicated in most cases. Used to rule out other pathologies when suspected, such as fractures or dislocations, arthritis, calcific tendonitis, soft tissue masses.
Result
normal
CBC
Test
Not indicated in most cases. Used to rule out septic or inflammatory conditions when suspected.
Result
normal
ESR
Test
Not indicated in most cases. Used to rule out septic or inflammatory conditions when suspected.
Result
normal
CRP
Test
Not indicated in most cases. Used to rule out septic or inflammatory conditions when suspected.
Result
normal
MRI
Test
Not indicated in the vast majority of cases. Used to rule out other pathologies when suspected, such as occult masses or cysts, tendon rupture, triangular fibrocartilage complex tear, or ligament injury if suspected. May be used to rule out true joint locking, extensor tendon subluxation, and locking under the A2 pulley from trigger finger.[31][32]
Result
normal
CT scan
Test
Not indicated in the vast majority of cases. Used to rule out other pathologies when suspected, especially bony issues. May be used to rule out true joint locking, loose bodies, or occult fracture.
Result
normal
Use of this content is subject to our disclaimer