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Whitlow herpes is a finger sore caused by the herpes simplex virus, typically HSV-I. It’s painful but not life-threatening and can resolve on its own. It’s important to avoid handling active outbreaks and to keep the affected hand clean to prevent infection and transmission. Healthcare professionals are also at risk.
A Whitlow herpes is a sore on a finger caused by exposure to the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Most commonly, HSV-I is the causative agent behind a Whitlow herpes. The sore is usually very painful, but not life threatening, and resolves on its own, although patients are sometimes given a topical antiviral to use to speed healing. People with herpes need to be careful about handling active outbreaks, especially if they have broken skin on their hands, as this can result in herpes whitlow developing.
This sore typically appears red and swollen and sometimes ruptures after forming a blister. The patient may have difficulty bending the finger if the Whitlow is near a joint. Whitlows form when people handle a herpes outbreak around the mouth or genitals and don’t wash their hands properly. The virus can enter broken skin on the hand, such as a torn cuticle, and will create a small secondary sore.
In addition to being a risk to people who have herpes, whitlows are also a known problem for healthcare professionals. Prior to the widespread use of gloves for patient contact, many people in the dental industry developed herpes whitlow in the course of patient care, and these sores were a problem for other medical professionals as well. The wearing of gloves and hand washing among patients has greatly reduced the incidence of problems like these among physicians.
The main risk with a herpes whitlow is the possibility of an open sore developing. If the Whitlow bursts, bacteria can colonize it and cause an unpleasant infection. It is recommended to keep the affected hand clean and dry and to remain alert for signs of infection such as foul-smelling discharge and pus. Antivirals can also help resolve the sore more quickly. If blisters form, it is not recommended to pop the blister.
It’s also important to protect other people from a Whitlow caused by herpes. While a closed wound doesn’t pose a significant danger, once the sore breaks out, it can spread the virus to others. People who handle food should not do so with active herpes sores on their hands, and it is advisable to avoid physical contact with mucous membranes and open wounds, both of which can create herpes transmission routes. This condition can be managed, but not cured, making it important to avoid transmission in the first place if possible.
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