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Published on: June 7, 2017

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Acute hand infections

Meredith Osterman1, Reid Draeger1, Peter Stern1

  • 1Mary S. Stern Hand Fellow, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH.

The Journal of Hand Surgery
|July 30, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Antibiotic resistance complicates acute hand infections, making prompt diagnosis and treatment crucial to prevent severe outcomes like amputation. Understanding risk factors aids in managing these challenging infections effectively.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Hand Surgery
  • Bacteriology

Background:

  • The rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria presents significant challenges in treating acute hand infections.
  • Limited development of new antibiotic classes over 50 years exacerbates treatment difficulties.
  • Prompt medical intervention is vital to avert complications such as stiffness, contractures, and amputation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the challenges in treating acute hand infections due to antibiotic resistance.
  • To emphasize the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment.
  • To identify predisposing factors for hand infections.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on acute hand infections.
  • Analysis of common infection sites and mechanisms.
  • Identification of patient populations at higher risk.

Main Results:

  • Subcutaneous tissue is the most common site for hand infections.
  • Trauma is the most frequent mechanism leading to hand infections.
  • Immunocompromised status, intravenous drug abuse, diabetes mellitus, and steroid use increase infection risk.

Conclusions:

  • Acute hand infections require urgent management due to the threat of antibiotic resistance and potential for severe sequelae.
  • Recognizing risk factors is essential for proactive patient care and infection prevention.
  • Further research into novel antimicrobial strategies is warranted.
Keywords:
Flexor tenosynovitisMRSAinfectionnecrotizing fasciitis osteomyelitis

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