An uncommon cause for a common complaint.

ABSTRACT

Infective tenosynovitis is an uncommon cause of a common condition namely carpal tunnel syndrome. Following an extensive review of the literature, we report what we understand to be the first published case of Mycobacterium kansasii (M. kansasii) causing tenosynovitis of flexor tendons resulting in carpal tunnel syndrome in Australia. Our case highlights the need for a high level of suspension, histology and appropriate culture with specific microbiological tests for atypical mycobacteria where tenosynovitis is present at carpal tunnel surgery, even in patients who do not appear to have risk factors.