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Whitlow
Medical Questions » Whitlow
| Name: Whitlow |
| Also known as: Herpes Simplex Type 1 Infection |
| A skin infection beside a finger nail, with the virus Herpes simplex type 1. |
Causes of Whitlow
Initially, the infection is caught as a child, when it is a simple mouth infection. The virus then migrates to the nerve endings around the finger or toe nail, and remains inactive there for many years. It may later reactivate at times of stress or illness. Recurrences tend to develop at the same spot. |
Symptoms of Whitlow
Redness and soreness of the skin, usually beside a nail, followed a day or two later by an eruption of small blisters, which rapidly burst to leave a shallow, weeping, painful ulcer. |
Tests for Whitlow
None normally necessary, but if required the diagnosis can be confirmed by taking special swabs from the sore. |
Treatment for Whitlow
If treated by appropriate creams and lotions immediately the redness and discomfort is felt and before the blisters form, it may be possible to stop further progress. Once established, a cure is not normally possible, but drying, antiseptic and anesthetic creams or lotions may be used.
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Complications of Whitlow of its treatment
In rare cases, the infection can spread into the throat and lungs, and these patients become extremely ill. |
Likely Outcome of Whitlow
The sore heals and the pain eases in about ten days. |
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