Contents
A felon is an abscess of the distal pulp or phalanx pad of the fingertip.
- #2 M/C hand infection (25%)

Aetiology
- Penetrating trauma:
- Splinters
- Bits of glass
- Abrasions
- Minor puncture wounds
- Multiple finger-stick blood tests
- Untreated paronychia
Clinical features
- Acute onset of severe throbbing pain with abscess formation on the palmar aspect of the fingertip
Complications
- Tissue necrosis
- Osteomyelitis
- Pyogenic arthritis
- Septicaemia
Management
Initial management:
- Elevation
- Oral antibiotics
- Warm water or saline soaks
Incision and drainage
If fluctuance present
- Complications: Anesthetic fingertip, neuroma, and unstable finger pad
Amputation
If osteomyelitis present
