Published online Oct 18, 2023. doi: 10.5312/wjo.v14.i10.733
Peer-review started: August 21, 2023
First decision: September 13, 2023
Revised: September 13, 2023
Accepted: October 8, 2023
Article in press: October 8, 2023
Published online: October 18, 2023
Processing time: 56 Days and 1.3 Hours
Triggering, locking, clicking, and crepitus of the fingers are common symptoms patients present with. Even though crepitus and triggering can occur as part of the same underlying diagnosis, it is important to differentiate between them, as they usually indicate different possible diagnoses. The differential diagnoses that should be considered include trigger finger, metacarpophalangeal joint (MCPJ) arthritis, fractures or dislocations, extensor digitorum communis subluxation or dislocation, locked MCPJ, avascular necrosis of the metacarpal head, and Dupuytren’s disease. A thorough clinical examination with appropriate special investigations can permit the clinician to make the correct diagnosis. Appropriate management of a confirmed diagnosis is successful in providing symptomatic improvement.
Core Tip: Despite trigger fingers being one of the most common causes of hand pain and disability, there are other possible causes of triggering, locking, clicking, and crepitus of the fingers. Failure to recognize and diagnose these other causes can lead to treatment errors and inappropriate management of patients.