Sometimes called whitlow finger, it occurs in 2.5 cases per 100,000 people per year.
The HSV infection can be transmitted through direct contact with mouth or genital sores.
Whitlow finger tends to affect children under 10 and young adults ages 20 to 30.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
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Reproduced with permission from DermNetdermnetnz.org2023.
Herpetic Whitlow Symptoms
Thesymptomsof herpetic whitlow resemble that of otherherpesinfections.
Illustration by Cindy Chung for Verywell Health
There is a red, blistering rash present, along with pain and sometimes, flu-like symptoms.
Rarely, multiple fingers are involved.
Mild swelling surrounding the rash on the finger is also common.
Sometimes, the vesicles spread into the nail bed, leading to bleeding or bruising around the nailbed.
Interestingly, this pain (similar to other herpes infections) often precedes any skin changes.
Some people also experience fever and swollen lymph nodes in the armpit and/or upper limb.
This is a very serious complication and requires hospitalization.
Interestingly, this pain (similar to other herpes infections) often precedes any skin changes.
Some people also experience a fever and swollen lymph nodes in the armpit and/or upper limb.
What Can Herpetic Whitlow Be Mistaken For?
Herpetic whitlow can be mistaken for a few other skin conditions.
HSV bang out 1 is usually transmitted orally with an initial infection during childhood.
HSV pop in 2, associated with genital herpes, is a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Either HSV infection can lead to whitlow finger.
A positive result means that the herpes virus grew within the laboratory dish.
Keep in mind though, these cells do not exclusively occur with the herpes simplex virus.
Sometimes, though, medication is recommended, especially if the infection is severe or yourimmune systemis suppressed.
Antiviral Medications
In addition to self-care strategies, your healthcare provider may recommend an anti-viral medication.
Rarely would an antiviral, like acyclovir, be given through the vein (called intravenous acyclovir).
Cool compresses applied to the finger can also be soothing.
After cleaning, apply a dry dressing over the rash.
There are few good ways to prevent herpetic whitlow, which can recur.
The same treatments, however, can be used with subsequent episodes of recurring whitlow finger.
It’s a skin condition that is more likely to occur in people with immune system compromise.
Also likely are recurring infections, especially at times of illness or stress when symptoms re-emerge.
Over-the-counter pain relief will help, although some people may need to take antiviral drugs or other medications.
Herpetic whitlow can mimic other infectious conditions, like bacterial cellulitis.
Be sure to see a healthcare provider to ensure the proper diagnosis and treatment for your condition.
2021 Jan 15;27(1):13030/qt88z306fm.
2021 Jul-Aug;96(4):477-481. doi: 10.1016/j.abd.2020.08.017.
National Health Service.Herpetic whitlow (whitlow finger).
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Herpes Simplex: Diagnosis and Treatment.
