Pain in Fingertip? It Could Be Panaritium!
Panaritium, commonly known as Whitlow or Felon, is a painful bacterial infection of the fingers or toes, usually occurring near the nail bed or fingertip pulp. It is an acute purulent inflammation that develops beneath the skin, often after minor trauma such as a cut, hangnail, or puncture wound. Although it might look minor at first, untreated panaritium can progress rapidly, leading to tendon, bone, or joint infections, and in severe cases, sepsis (blood infection). Understanding the early signs, risk factors, and treatment options is essential for effective management and prevention. What is Panaritium? Panaritium refers to a localized infection of the finger or toe that involves the soft tissue structures — typically the nail folds, pulp space, or subcutaneous tissues. The term “Whitlow” is often used when the infection affects the area around the nail bed, while “Felon” describes a deep infection in the finger pad. Types of Panaritium: 1. Cutaneous Panaritium – superficial i...