If the infection is deeper or there is a lot of pus, the doctor may open the area to drain the pus.

This closed space is separated into many small compartments, each of which fills with infection and pus.

Then the infection can spread deeper into the finger. An infection of the pad of the finger is called a felon. This article may contains scientific references. X-rays may be obtained to check for damage to any other structures like the bone or to detect any underlying foreign body.This article on Epainassist.com has been reviewed by a medical professional, as well as checked for facts, to assure the readers the best possible accuracy.We follow a strict editorial policy and we have a zero-tolerance policy regarding any level of plagiarism. 2000 Jan. 25(1):173-5. .

penetrating injury Paronychia is commonly misapplied as a synonym for whitlow or felon. You also may soak your finger in warm water. An infection of the pad of the finger is called a felon. A painful, throbbing infection of the pulp of the fingertip is called a “felon” (see Figure 1). The infected area might be swollen, hot, red, and tender. The unique anatomy of the fingertip determines the details of how these are treated. Sometimes it can spread into the bone. - Mechanism of a clenched fist injury - Surgical treatment of acute paronychia - Surgical treatment of acute eponychia - Pulp space infection felon - Surgical treatment of pulp space infection - Potential spaces for abscess formation on the dorsum of the hand - Web space infection of the hand - Web space abscess - Synovial sheaths of the hand - Deep fascial spaces of the hand Cellulitis is a condition in which the superficial layer of skin and underlying tissue gets infected. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse call line if: Adapted with permission from copyrighted materials from Healthwise, Incorporated (Healthwise). Paronychia is a skin infection around a fingernail or toenail. This is sometimes done in an operating room. Because of this, pus from an infection can build up with no place to go.

Felons are generally caused by penetrating trauma to the finger tip. The numbers in the parentheses (1, 2, 3) are clickable links to peer-reviewed scientific papers.The feedback link “Was this Article Helpful” on this page can be used to report content that is not accurate, up-to-date or questionable in any manner. There is entrapment of pus in these compartments with infection provoking extreme discomfort and throbbing pain. Sometimes it can spread into the bone. Know the Causes, Symptoms, Treatment- Antibiotics, I and D. felon is a subcutaneous abscess of the fingertip pulp treatment is usually I&D and IV antibiotics; Epidemiology incidence accounts for 15-20% of hand infections; location most commonly occurs in the thumb or index finger; Pathophysiology mechanism of injury . Biting or chewing the nails is a common cause.

Then the infection can spread deeper into the finger. Symptoms of Cellulitis Infection-Finger Felon include: Throbbing pain is experienced at the end an infected finger, Inflammation, Appearance of redness, Development of swelling etc. It looks like your browser does not have JavaScript enabled. Because of this, pus from an infection can build up with no place to go.

Pus accumulation may also be visible.Generally, a puncture wound or cut is the basis of diagnosis. Thus, urgent evaluation and treatment is paramount. Pus accumulates in infected tissue. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This could involve injury from a plant thorn or a piece of glass or splinter. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Adapted with permission from copyrighted materials from Healthwise, Incorporated (Healthwise).

The same cellulitis when affecting the soft pad of fingertip is termed as felon. More serious than your run-of-the-mill soft tissue infection, a felon has the potential to compromise blood flow to the distal fingertip through compression via edema from pus formation. Chir Narzadow Ruchu Ortop Pol. Sometimes the cause isn't known. J Hand Surg [Am]. Healthwise disclaims any warranty and is not responsible or liable for your use of this information. There is swelling, heat, and redness. Connolly B, Johnstone F, Gerlinger T, Puttler E. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in a finger felon. The finger is made up of several small areas of tissue. Infection in a finger, if treated, should begin to heal in a few days and should be completely resolved in a week or two.