title: C.S. Campbell: Gamekeeper's thumb.
abstract: Rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament of the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb is an injury frequently encountered by the emergency physician. The mechanism of injury is usually a fall onto the abducted thumb. The setting is frequently one of athletic endeavor, especially skiing, in which this is the most commonly encountered upper extremity injury. The physical findings typical of collateral ligament rupture may easily be overlooked on casual examination. When not appropriately managed, the injury may result in chronic pain, weakness, and joint instability. The eponym "gamekeeper's thumb" derives from a report of similar injuries described as occurring in a series of British gamekeepers.
mesh_terms: D005383:Finger Injuries; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D008023:Ligaments, Articular / Q000293:injuries*; D008662:Metacarpophalangeal Joint / Q000293:injuries*; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000266:history*; D012421:Rupture; D012606:Scotland; D013933:Thumb / Q000293:injuries*