This site is intended for healthcare professionals

Sign in
Go to /sign-in page

You can view 5 more pages before signing in

Pulp space infection

Authoring team

Felon describes infection within the longitudinal fibrofatty compartments which divide up the pulp at the tip of a digit. Usually, infection is acquired through a penetrating wound. It accounts for around 10% of hand infections.

Pain, swelling and erythema of rapid onset are noted in the distal phalanx region. The danger is that infection will extend more deeply into bone or proximally into the flexor tendon sheath.

Mangement entails:

  • rapid incision in the longitudinal, mid-lateral line of the digit avoid incisions at the tip of the finger
  • pus should be taken for culture
  • the wound is packed and a protective dressing applied
  • irrigation and regular repacking prevent recurrence
  • oral antibiotics should be commenced; severe infections may require the intravenous route

Related pages

Create an account to add page annotations

Create a free account

Annotations allow you to add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation. E.g. a website or number. This information will always show when you visit this page.

The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

Connect

Copyright 2024 Oxbridge Solutions Limited, a subsidiary of OmniaMed Communications Limited. All rights reserved. Any distribution or duplication of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Oxbridge Solutions receives funding from advertising but maintains editorial independence.