Herpetic whitlow
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A herpetic whitlow is a lesion on a finger or thumb caused by the herpes simplex virus. In children the primary source of infection is the orofacial area, and it is commonly inferred that the virus (in this case commonly HSV-1) is transferred by the chewing or sucking of fingers or thumbs. In adults it is more common for the primary source to be the genital region, with a corresponding preponderance of HSV-2.
[edit] Treatment
Although it is a self-limited illness, topical antivirals, particularly topical acyclovir, have been shown to be effective in decreasing the duration of symptoms. One should never try to lance or surgically debride the lesion, as it may make it worse (cause a superinfection or cause encephalitis).
A HERPETIC whitlow is an infection of the herpes virus around the fingernail.In children is often caused by thumb sucking or finger sucking while they have a cold sore. It is seen in adult health care workers such as dentists because increasesd exposure to the herpes virus.
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