aetiology

Last reviewed 01/2018

Triggering results from a mismatch between the size of the flexor tendon to a digit and its tendon sheath. The discrepancy may be a result of either the tendon increasing in size or the sheath decreasing in cross-sectional area centrally with swelling, most commonly due to inflammation.

The aetiology may be subdivided into:

  • primary:
    • isolated trigger finger in adult
    • congenital trigger finger
  • secondary:
    • diabetes
    • rheumatoid arthritis
    • gout