The Hand & Wrist Center treats various types of infections. Oftentimes, the infections we see at our center are from trivial and routine injuries which were left untreated. Some of the infections and procedures we diagnose and treat are listed below:

Cellulitis is a superficial skin infection. This type of infection is characterized by swelling, redness, heat, and tenderness, and usually occurs after a minor penetrating wound or injury. Treatment for Cellulitis includes application of heat or medications.

Lymphangitis is an uncommon type of a superficial spreading infection involving the lymphatic system. This infection usually starts as Cellulitis then progresses to red streaks from the infection and spread to the upper extremity. High fevers and sepsis are usually associated with Lymphangitis. Patients with Lymphangitis are usually best treated in a hospital setting with intravenous antibiotics.

Abscesses are characterized by the presence of a pus filled cavity under the skin. An abscess may form following a penetrating injury or other superficial infections. Treatment involves surgical opening of the abscess for drainage followed by appropriate medications.

Septic arthritis or Purulent flexor tenosynovitis are infections involving joint spaces or flexor sheaths. These infections are considered severe due to the potential to cause rapid destruction of affected joints and tendons. These conditions require urgent evaluation and surgical drainage in order to minimize permanent damage to these critical structures.

Necrotizing fasciitis is an uncommon but severe and life-threatening infection caused by the Streptococcus or Staphylococcus bacteria. The infection enters the skin through minor abrasions and then can penetrate muscles and fat. Treatment involves urgent surgical procedures on involved tissue and high-dose intravenous antibiotics.

Paronychia is one of the most common infections of the hand, which involves the skin around the nail. Initially, this infection starts as a Cellulitis with redness and swelling at the base of the nail. If left untreated, it progresses to form an abscess which then requires surgical incision and drainage. A chronic paronychia results in a combined infection involving both bacteria and fungus of the tissue of the nail bed. This presents as a slowly progressive discoloration under the nail, which then may lead to loss of the nail’s ability to adhere. Depending on the size and severity of the infection, treatment can involve topical and oral medications and minor procedures.

The Hand & Wrist Center is able to provide a customized and premier diagnosis and treatment experience for hand infections. Contact our center today for an appointment.