Herpetic whitlow

Last Updated: 2023-07-07

Author(s): Anzengruber F., Navarini A.

ICD11: 1F00.0Y

Definition

Infection caused by herpes viruses in the area of a finger.

Etiopathogenesis

Herpesviruses, usually type I, in some cases type II. A herpetic whitlow can occur as both a primary and secondary infection. Infection often occurs in dentists.

Clinical features

Bubbles or erosion, usually very painful, in the area of the finger.

Diagnosis

Anamnesis (painful, recent onset)
Clinical
Virological diagnosis (microtrak and / or PCR)

Therapy

Analgesia e.g. with ibuprofen.

Topical drying with e.g. Betadine Lsg.

For primary infection

Systemic:
- Valaciclovir p.o. 500 mg 2x daily for 7 days

For secondary manifestations:

Systemic
- Aciclovir 400 mg 5x tgl.
- Famciclovir 750 mg 2x tgl. for 1 day
- Valaciclovir 2g 1-0-1 for days