Human bites. Guidelines for prompt evaluation and treatment.

Human bites are a relatively common injury. They often involve the hand and may have serious sequelae because of the structures involved, the bacteriologic spectrum, or poor patient compliance with the treatment regimen. A careful history and physical examination are important, and treatment involves good local wound care, appropriate antibiotic coverage (including both a penicillin and a penicillinase-resistant penicillin), immobilization and elevation of the injured area, and close follow-up, as well as early rehabilitation.