Felon

A felon is an infection that occurs within the closed-space compartments of the fingertip pulp. The swelling leads to intense throbbing pain. The surrounding tissues are at risk for

ischemia

if the blood flow is compromised by compression from edema and pus formation.
It is important to get treatment quickly for felons when they are small. If left untreated the underlying bone, joint, or tendons may become infected. And Appropriate follow-up should always be arranged.
Symptoms

Pain in toes

  • Throbbing

or Pain at fingertip(s)

  • Throbbing

  • At finger pad

common

Enlarged fingers

  • With redness

  • With pus

  • Finger pad

or Enlarged toes

  • With pus

  • Toe pad

  • With redness

common

Pain when touching finger or toe

common

Skin rash and redness

  • At fingers

  • At toes

common

Risk factors

Recent injury or trauma in upper extremity

  • In finger(s)

or Recent trauma or injury in lower extremity

  • Trauma at toes

Diabetes mellitus

or Falling sick easily

or Kidney failure or on dialysis

Treatment
Treatment involves incision and drainage of the infected pulp space and oral antibiotics. If left untreated the underlying bone, joint, or tendons may become infected.
Recommended specialist

If you have Felon, then a visit to a family medicine specialist is highly recommended.

Contact a

Family medicine specialist

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