Infections of the Hand, injection injuries-Infections of the Hand, injection injuries Overview

Infections of the Hand, injection injuries Overview

Pdf Summary

Hand infections can lead to chronic stiffness, joint contractures, and even amputation if not properly treated. Risk factors for hand infections include diabetes, poor nutrition, substance abuse, immune disorders, and the use of immunomodulating medications. Antibiotic therapy may be appropriate for early, mild infections, but surgical intervention may be necessary for more severe cases. Bacterial infections are the most common, with Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus species being the main culprits. Viral infections, such as herpetic whitlow, are relatively uncommon. Fungal infections, particularly Candida species, can occur in chronic paronychia or immunocompromised patients. Atypical infections, caused by mycobacteria, may be more difficult to treat due to the emergence of resistant organisms and the need for prolonged antimicrobial therapy. Specific types of hand infections include paronychia, felon, abscess, flexor tenosynovitis, radial and ulnar bursal infections, osteomyelitis, septic arthritis, cellulitis, necrotizing infections, herpetic whitlow, and bites. Proper diagnosis and treatment, including surgical drainage, debridement, antibiotics, and wound care, are essential for managing these infections. Aquatic organisms can also cause infections, particularly in those exposed to fresh or brackish water or leeches, and broad-spectrum antibiotic coverage is necessary to address the various pathogens involved.

Keywords

hand infections

chronic stiffness

joint contractures

amputation

diabetes

bacterial infections

viral infections

fungal infections

surgical intervention

antibiotic therapy