Hand Infections: Treatment Recommendations for Specific Types

Abstract

Hand infections can be associated with considerable morbidity. Expeditious treatment is needed to minimize permanent dysfunction, loss of work, and medical cost. Hand infections can affect the skin, subcutaneous tissues, fascia, subfascial and synovial spaces, joints, and bone. Pathogens include a variety of bacteria, viruses, yeasts, fungi, and mycoplasmata. Management frequently involves rest, elevation, incision and drainage, and appropriate antibiotic therapy. The orthopaedic surgeon must be knowledgeable about the pertinent anatomy and how this influences the behavior of specific types of infections, the role of immunocompromise, and the importance of early mobilization.