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Herpetic whitlow: an infectious occupational hazard
Journal of Occupational Medicine. : Official Publication of the Industrial Medical Association
|October 1, 1985
Summary
Herpetic whitlow, a finger infection caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV), presents with pain and blisters. Healthcare workers are at risk, but prevention through gloves and avoiding patient care during active infection is key.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Herpetic whitlow is a painful finger infection caused by herpes simplex virus types 1 or 2.
- It commonly affects healthcare professionals due to exposure to oral and respiratory secretions.
- The infection manifests as erythema, pain, and nonpurulent vesicles or bullae.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the characteristics, diagnosis, and management of herpetic whitlow.
- To highlight the importance of prevention and control measures, especially in healthcare settings.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentation and diagnostic methods for herpetic whitlow.
- Discussion of treatment approaches and preventive strategies.
Main Results:
- Herpetic whitlow can result from primary or recurrent herpes simplex virus infections.
- Diagnostic confirmation involves Tzanck tests, antibody titers, viral cultures, and fluorescent antibody tests.
- The condition is typically self-limiting, and surgical intervention is generally not recommended.
Conclusions:
- Herpetic whitlow requires careful diagnosis and management, focusing on symptom relief and preventing spread.
- Prevention strategies are crucial, particularly for healthcare personnel, including isolation, avoiding patient care during active infection, and consistent glove use.