Fulminant Finger Necrosis in the Course of streptococcal Phlegmon to the Hand: a Report of 2 cases

Introduction

Phlegmon is a purulent infection spreading out in the loose connective tissue. Phlegmon in the hand is usually a complication of other local infection such as felon, infected wound or purulent tenosynovitis. In most cases an infecting organism is Staphylococcus aureus and less frequently Streptococcus pyogenes. Factors which predispose to the disease include diabetes, chronic alcoholism and immunodeficiency [1], [2]. A trend is observed to increase number of phlegmon of Streptococcal aetiology treated in the author’s institution. These infections are more dangerous than Staphylococcal: the course is more vigorous, with systemic reaction and frequently sepsis. Also local complications are more serious, including extensive necrosis of the skin, requiring secondary coverage with skin grafts or local flaps. In this article we report about 2 cases of Streptococcal phlegmon which was complicated by fulminant four-finger necrosis.

Publication History

Article published online:
31 January 2022

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