Purulent inflammation and infection of terminal pulp space of distal phalanges is known as: September 2009

Ans. B: Whitlow Whitlow/Felons are closed-space infections of the fingeip pulp. This is the commonest hand infection . Fingeip pulp is divided into numerous small compaments by veical septa that stabilize the pad. Infection occurring within these compaments can lead to abscess formation, edema, and rapid development of increased pressure in a closed space. This increased pressure may compromise blood flow and lead to necrosis of the skin and pulp.There is little room for swelling, so that infection causes a throbbing pain early. Staphylococcus aureus is the most common cause Complications Osteomyelitis involving the diaphysis of distal phalanx is a common complication. The most serious complication is acute tenosynovitis, which may result from contiguous spread of infection. Other complications include skin necrosis, deformity of the fingeip, septic ahritis, and instability of the finger pad. It is managed by incision & drainage.