Why Hand Infections Are Serious
The hand contains numerous tight compartments, tendon sheaths, and joint spaces — all of which can rapidly spread infection and suffer irreversible damage if not treated promptly. What begins as a small cut can quickly progress to deep space infection, septic arthritis, or necrotizing fasciitis.
Types of Hand Infections
Paronychia
Infection around the fingernail. Early cases may respond to antibiotics; established abscesses require drainage.
Felon
A painful abscess within the fingertip pulp requiring surgical incision and drainage to decompress the tight compartments.
Flexor Tenosynovitis
One of the most serious hand infections — infection within the flexor tendon sheath. Presents with Kanavel's four signs. Requires urgent surgical irrigation to prevent tendon necrosis.
Deep Space Infections & Septic Arthritis
Require surgical drainage. Septic arthritis — most commonly from bite wounds over the knuckle — requires urgent washout to prevent permanent joint destruction.
When to Seek Care
Seek same-day evaluation for: rapidly spreading redness or warmth; fever with hand pain; a finger swollen in a bent position and painful to straighten; any bite wound; an abscess not improving.