Herpetic whitlow: Difference between revisions

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==Source==
==Source==
*Tintinalli
*Tintinalli
*1.Wu IB, Schwartz RA. Herpetic whitlow. Cutis. Mar 2007;79(3):193-6
*2.Nikkels AF, Pierard GE. Treatment of mucocutaneous presentations of herpes simplex virus infections. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2002;3(7):475-87.


[[Category:Ortho]]
[[Category:Ortho]]

Revision as of 22:04, 25 August 2014

Background

  • HSV infection of distal finger
    • Usually occurs from contact w/ oral herpes, or autoinoculation from genital herpes
    • Incubation period of 2-20 days, with possible prodrome of fever or malaise
    • 60% due to HSV-1, 40% due to HSV-2

Clinical Features

  • Same burning, pruritic sensation as from other herpes infections
  • Vesicular ullae
  • Finger may be indurated and tender (but should not be tense, as in a felon)
  • Rash develops over 7-10 days, with possible ulceration and rupture
  • Symptoms improve, crust over, and heal after 10-14 days with viral shedding terminating at this point
  • Complete resolution by 15-21 days

Diagnosis

  • If unsure of diagnosis can unroof a vesicle and send fluid for a Tzanck smear

Differential Diagnosis

Hand and finger infections

Look-Alikes

Treatment

  • Immobilization, elevation, analgesia
  • Acyclovir/valacyclovir may shorten duration of infection
  • Prevent autoinoculation or spread to other individuals by applying clean dressing

See Also

Source

  • Tintinalli
  • 1.Wu IB, Schwartz RA. Herpetic whitlow. Cutis. Mar 2007;79(3):193-6
  • 2.Nikkels AF, Pierard GE. Treatment of mucocutaneous presentations of herpes simplex virus infections. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2002;3(7):475-87.