Acute Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Secondary to Reactive Tenosynovitis Following a Cat Bite: Case Report

A 76-year-old male developed acute carpal tunnel syndrome (ACTS) due to reactive tenosynovitis and lymphangitis after a cat bite on his thumb. Non-operative treatment failed, leading to worsening pain, swelling, and paresthesia, requiring surgery. Exploration revealed pyogenic swelling and tenosynovitis in the flexor carpi radialis sheath and Space of Parona. Serous fluid was drained, and antibiotics were administered. The patient experienced significant pain reduction and regained full hand function after occupational therapy. This case highlights the importance of early recognition and intervention, especially in atypical CTS presentations, as timely surgical decompression can prevent long-term nerve damage.