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A hand abscess is an accumulation of pus affecting the hand, usually caused by a bacterial infection.
Abscesses in the hands are fairly common and usually result from injury.
A shallow (superficial) abscess may develop just under the
skin anywhere in the hand and nearly always results from a minor
injury, such as a splinter or needle prick. Severe pain, warmth, and
redness develop over the abscess, often with swelling of lymph nodes in
the armpit.
A deeper abscess may occur in any part of the palm and
spread between the metacarpal bones (the hand bones between the wrist
and fingers). Such an infection may occur after the skin is ripped or
the hand is punctured by something sharp. Palm abscesses may develop
from an infected callus. Palm abscesses begin as intense throbbing pain
with swelling and severe tenderness when touched. The swelling and pain
may be greater at the top of the hand than on the palm.
Bones of the Hand and Wrist
Doctors base the diagnosis of a hand abscess on an examination. They do x-rays to detect any foreign bodies (such as a tooth fragment, needle, or other object) that may be hidden under the skin.
Treatment
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Drainage of pus
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Antibiotics and a splint
Treatment of a hand abscess involves surgically draining the pus
through an incision. Antibiotics also are given, and people wear a
splint until the infection goes away.
People may need to undergo physical therapy afterwards to overcome stiffness and swelling and improve function.
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