Infections of the fingertip. Paronychias and felons.

Paronychias and felons are the most commonly encountered hand infections. Successful management of an uncomplicated infection involves an accurate diagnosis and prompt initiation of treatment, consisting of the judicious use of an appropriate incision, wound drainage, local wound care, antistaphylococcal antibiotics, and early rehabilitation. Complicated infections occur in immunosuppressed patients or those whose infection has been neglected or mistreated. Treatment of such infections is individualized.