Tuberculosis of the hand

Eleven cases of tuberculous infection affecting the hand are presented. The age incidence, clinical presentations and investigations are discussed. Treatment includes chemotherapy, radical synovectomy and early mobilisation. Hand function after surgery in the follow-up period of three to twenty-one months was very satisfactory with the exception of three cases which presented at a very late stage with secondary involvement of the wrists. The confusion that exists while using such terms as "Tuberculous Dactylitis" and "Tuberculous Tenosynovitis" is discussed. An alternative suggestion is made that "Tuberculosis of the Hand" be used.