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first dorsal compartment
Anatomical space containing the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis tendons at the radial styloid.
Full Definition
The first of six dorsal compartments of the wrist, located at the radial styloid process and containing two tendons: the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis. These tendons control thumb abduction and extension. Inflammation of this compartment's synovial lining causes De Quervain's tenosynovitis, characterized by pain with thumb movement and positive Finkelstein test.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify 'first' to distinguish from other dorsal compartments; commonly involved in De Quervain's tenosynovitis.
In Context
- "Ultrasound revealed thickening of the first dorsal compartment consistent with stenosing tenosynovitis." — Radiology report
- "First dorsal compartment release provided complete resolution of radial-sided wrist pain." — Follow-up note
Also known as
radial compartment
APL/EPB compartment
Don't confuse with
first metacarpal
radial artery
anatomical snuffbox