J Pediatr Infect Dis 2013; 08(03): 153-154
DOI: 10.3233/JPI-130396
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Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart – New York

An infant with an infection of the thumb

Authors

  • Michiel A.G.E. Bannier

    a   Department of Paediatrics, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
  • Carien J. Miedema

    a   Department of Paediatrics, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
  • Hein J.L. Brackel

    a   Department of Paediatrics, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, The Netherlands

Subject Editor:
Further Information

Publication History

24 April 2013

25 June 2013

Publication Date:
28 July 2015 (online)

Abstract

A 3-month-old female infant was admitted with an infection of the left thumb after parental nail biting. A herpetic whitlow was diagnosed, although there were no signs of a herpes gingivostomatitis. Inoculation probably occurred through parental nail biting. Herpetic whitlow in young infants is rare and often misdiagnosed as a staphylococcal skin infection. It should be considered when an infection of the distal phalanx is accompanied by vesicles.