View Larger Image

Rash Week! Name That Rash – The bubbly digit

By Brad Sobolewski, MD, MEd|2024-02-05T08:50:13-05:00February 5th, 2024|Dermatology, Rash Week|

Just look at the rash – then scroll down to see the answer. That’s it. Nothing fancy.

It’s Herpetic Whitlow!

Herpetic Whitlow is a condition that often is seen in thumb suckers and is due to herpes simplex virus. The lesions are painful, and should not be confused with abscesses. Attempting an I&D can only make it worse. This may be an isolated finding or part of a primary outbreak with rash elsewhere, fever, and other systemic symptoms. Treat with pain medicines and antivirals (Valacyclovir or Acyclovir) if early in the course.

References

Betz D, Fane K. Herpetic Whitlow. [Updated 2023 Jul 31]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482379/

About the Author: Brad Sobolewski, MD, MEd

Brad Sobolewski, MD, MEd is a Professor of Pediatric Emergency Medicine and an Associate Director for the Pediatric Residency Training Program at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. He is on Twitter/X @PEMTweets, on Instagram @BradSobolewski, authors the Pediatric Emergency Medicine site PEMBlog and is the host and creator of PEM Currents: The Pediatric Emergency Medicine Podcast. All views are strictly my own and not official medical advice.