An infection inside the tip of the finger can form an enclosed pocket of pus (or abscess) that is very painful as it expands. A felon is a fingertip abscess deep in the palm side of the finger. It usually is caused by bacterial infection (Staphylococcus aureus), but a herpes virus called herpetic whitlow and, more rarely, fungi also can cause felons.
Symptoms
1. extreme pain at the fingertip, especially when pressure is applied to the "fingerprint" surface
2. The end of the finger swells, is warm and turns red.
3. There may be an accumulation of a white, thick discharge (pus).
Diagnosis
1. Tenderness, redness, firmness and enlargement of the fingertip are all signs of a felon.
2. If you have small bubble-like cysts on the skin, called vesicles, and repeated episodes, it is likely the cause is herpetic whitlow.
Treatment
1. Felons are treated with a minor surgery.
2. Antibiotics that work against "staph" bacteria infections, such as cloxacillin, or cephalexin
3. Antiviral drugs
( If the infection is due to herpes, drainage is not performed because it may delay healing or increase the risk of bacterial infection.)
Prevention
If you are going to work with wood or other materials that could cause splinters, wear protective gloves. People with diabetes who prick their fingers for home blood tests should first wash the fingertip with alcohol. Avoiding contact with others who have herpes may prevent herpetic infections, though there may be no way to know in advance who has the infection. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of a herpetic infection may prevent complications.
Symptoms
1. extreme pain at the fingertip, especially when pressure is applied to the "fingerprint" surface
2. The end of the finger swells, is warm and turns red.
3. There may be an accumulation of a white, thick discharge (pus).
Diagnosis
1. Tenderness, redness, firmness and enlargement of the fingertip are all signs of a felon.
2. If you have small bubble-like cysts on the skin, called vesicles, and repeated episodes, it is likely the cause is herpetic whitlow.
Treatment
1. Felons are treated with a minor surgery.
2. Antibiotics that work against "staph" bacteria infections, such as cloxacillin, or cephalexin
3. Antiviral drugs
( If the infection is due to herpes, drainage is not performed because it may delay healing or increase the risk of bacterial infection.)
Prevention
If you are going to work with wood or other materials that could cause splinters, wear protective gloves. People with diabetes who prick their fingers for home blood tests should first wash the fingertip with alcohol. Avoiding contact with others who have herpes may prevent herpetic infections, though there may be no way to know in advance who has the infection. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of a herpetic infection may prevent complications.
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