Herpetic whitlow (herpes on the finger)

Overview

Herpetic whitlow spreads from cold sores or genital herpes to the finger.

Healthcare workers and children who suck thumbs get it most.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Painful finger blisters

Less common

• Fever

When to get medical care

Causes

Herpes virus.

Does it spread or run in families?

• Yes, it can spread from person to person.
• How it spreads: touch or sex.
• Condoms lower the risk. Sex partners should be tested and treated too.

Who is more likely to get it

• Children who suck thumbs

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Swab:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Cover it
• Don't pick

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).

Back to school, work, or sports

• You can go to school and work as usual.
• Don't have sex until you and your partners finish treatment and your doctor says it's OK.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Children: Often from thumb sucking with cold sores.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Heals in 2 to 3 weeks.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Herpetic whitlow (herpes on the finger)