Painful, self-limited, cutaneous viral infection of the finger(s), caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 or HSV-2) (1)
Usually limited to distal phalanx (2); highly contagious and s...
Prodromal phase (3 to 7 days): abrupt onset of digital pain described as burning, itching, and tingling of digit or r...
Recurrence of milder symptoms at same location can be triggered by physiologic or psychological stressors (illness, fever, sun exposure, menstruation).
Secondary bacterial inf...
Avitzur Y, Amir J. Herpetic whitlow infection in a general pediatrician—an occupational hazard. Infection. 2002;30(4):234–236. [View Abstract on Ov...
Incision and drainage of vesicular lesions is contraindicated because this can cause secondary bacterial infection, delay resolution, and increase risk of systemic symptoms.
HW will not...
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