Herpetic whitlow.

Three cases of herpetic whitlow are reported. This occupational hazard of medical and paramedical personnel caused by finger infection by ther herpes simplex virus is often confused with bacterial (pyogenic) infection of the pulp of the finger or thumb. Unnecessary surgical drainage may then be carried out, with prolongation of morbidity. Wider recognition of this entity should enable a correct clinical diagnosis to be made in every case. The treatment is conservative as the condition is self-limiting. Topical application of idoxuridine appears to be beneficial.