De Quervain 's tenosynovitis is inflammation of tendons on the side of the wrist at the base of the thumb. These tendons include the extensor pollicis brevis and the abductor pollicis longus tendons, which extend the joints of the thumb. What causes de Quervain 's tenosynovitis ? Learn about de Quervain tenosynovitis , a painful condition affecting the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. Find out the symptoms, causes, risk factors, diagnosis and treatment options from Mayo Clinic experts. De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is caused by friction of the tendons within the first extensor compartment of the wrist against a thickened extensor retinaculum, resulting in wrist pain and swelling. It is most common in women aged between 30 to 50yrs, especially in those with occupations or hobbies involving repetitive movements of the wrist. In this article, we shall look at the pathophysiology, clinical features and management of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis . De Quervain tenosynovitis is pain and swelling in the tendons around your thumb, the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis.