Mycobacterium bovis tenosynovitis

Abstract

Infectious tenosynovitis is a rare condition usually presenting with symptoms of joint pain, swelling and deformity. A large number of infectious organisms are known to cause tenosynovitis and prompt and accurate diagnosis is essential to ensure appropriate treatment is delivered before serious complications and functional impairment occurs. We report a case of Mycobacterium bovis tenosynovitis, a rare cause of infectious tenosynovitis; we discuss the clinical features and management of this condition and highlight the difficulties encountered in reaching the correct diagnosis and the importance of the appropriate use of biopsy to aid diagnosis. Copyright 2013 BMJ Publishing Group. All rights reserved.