De Quervain's disease. Changing pathology or changing perception?

The basic anatomy of the first extensor compartment is presented with a review of the pathology of de Quervain's stenosing tenovaginitis. The results in 100 medicolegal cases of de Quervain's disease are analysed and reasons are sought for the poor results. A review of the known factors associated with the causation of de Quervain's disease is presented with recommendations about the management of this condition.