[Repeated rupture of the extensor tendons of the hand due to fluoroquinolones. Apropos of a case].

Fluoroquinolone toxicity on cartilages and tendons has been well known since 1983. Tendon inflammation or rupture has been described. Achilles tendon rupture is the most frequent complication but many other sites of tendon injuries have been reported. This article presents a case of rupture of extensor tendons of the hand in an elderly woman treated by fluoroquinolones. As far as we know, this site of tendon lesion has never been previously described. Histological examination of tendon injuries was possible after surgical treatment. Histological structures were similar to the classical description but had specific features. Like other authors, we think that the mechanism of the disease involves vascular disorders as well as direct toxicity. The histological lesions seem to be different in chronic and acute forms.