Atypical Hand Infections.

Abstract

Atypical infections of the hand are caused by organisms such as Mycobacterium, fungi, and viruses, and often do not respond to conventional management. They exist within a wide spectrum of presentations, ranging from cutaneous lesions to deep infections such as tenosynovitis and osteomyelitis. Having a high clinical suspicion for atypical hand infections is vital because diagnosis often requires special tests and/or cultures. Obtaining a detailed medical, work, and travel history is extremely important. An indolent clinical course, late diagnosis, and delayed treatment are common. In addition to medical therapies, surgical debridement is often required to effectively treat these infections.