Blistering distal dactylitis.

Blistering distal dactylitis is a distinctive infection localized to the volar fat pad of the distal phalanx of the finger. The causative agent is a group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus. The organism can be identified by a Gram-stained smear and culture of the blister fluid. The infection responds readily to incision and drainage, compresses, and a course of an appropriate oral antibiotic.