The Problem of Herpetic Whitlow Among Hospital Personnel

Abstract

Five cases of nosocomially acquired herpetic whitlow are presented; three cases developed following a common exposure. All infections were acquired despite the use of surgical gloves as recommended by existing guidelines on control of nosocomial infection. In two cases the mistaken diagnosis of pyogenic paronychia led to surgical intervention, with excessive morbidity and disability. Among the five cases, morbidity ranged from several days of unemployment to permanent sequelae necessitating a career change. Revised guidelines for infection control should include the use of gloves on both hands whenever patient care involves contact with a debilitated patient with herpes simplex labialis.