Which sign is characteristic of purulent flexor tenosynovitis (Kanavel signs)?

Which sign is characteristic of purulent flexor tenosynovitis (Kanavel signs)?

• A. Fusiform swelling of the finger
• B. Fever
• C. Numbness
• D. Bruising

Answer: (A)

The key sign being tested is fusiform swelling of the finger—the classic “sausage finger” appearance seen in purulent flexor tenosynovitis. This circumferential swelling results from infection and inflammation of the flexor tendon sheath, making the finger appear uniformly swollen along its length. In Kanavel signs, this fusiform swelling is the hallmark, while other findings like fever can occur with infection in general but are not specific to this condition, numbness isn’t characteristic, and bruising is not typical of tendon sheath infection. Prompt recognition is important because these infections can rapidly progress and require urgent surgical drainage along with antibiotics.

The key sign being tested is fusiform swelling of the finger—the classic “sausage finger” appearance seen in purulent flexor tenosynovitis. This circumferential swelling results from infection and inflammation of the flexor tendon sheath, making the finger appear uniformly swollen along its length.

In Kanavel signs, this fusiform swelling is the hallmark, while other findings like fever can occur with infection in general but are not specific to this condition, numbness isn’t characteristic, and bruising is not typical of tendon sheath infection. Prompt recognition is important because these infections can rapidly progress and require urgent surgical drainage along with antibiotics.