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Recurrent infection in the left thumb

Infection volume 41, pages 1203–1204 (2013)Cite this article

Abstract

Introduction

Infections of the hand may be associated with lymphangitis and lymphadenitis. In most cases, bacterial infections are responsible but these may be also due to viral infections.

Material and Methods

We describe a clinical case of a recurrent infection in the left thumb of a health male. Bacterial and viral cultures were performed.

Results

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 2 was isolated on viral culture and on direct fluorescent antibody testing; so, the final diagnosis was herpetic whitlow.

Conclusions

Herpetic whitlow should be considered in cases of recurrent finger infections.

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Conflict of interest

None.

Author information

Affiliations

  1. Dpto Especialidades Médicas, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain

    E. Pintor, P. Gargantilla & B. Herreros

  2. Dpto Microbiología, Hospital Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain

    P. Montilla, P. Catalán & A. Burillo

Authors
  1. E. Pintor
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  2. P. Montilla
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  3. P. Catalán
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  4. A. Burillo
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  5. P. Gargantilla
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  6. B. Herreros
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to E. Pintor.

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Cite this article

Pintor, E., Montilla, P., Catalán, P. et al. Recurrent infection in the left thumb. Infection 41, 1203–1204 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s15010-013-0474-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s15010-013-0474-3

Keywords

  • Whitlow
  • Herpes simplex virus type 2
  • HSV-2
  • Lymphangitis