Herpetic whitlow is an infection that affects the skin. It is caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV). This condition commonly affects the fingers. The infection can recur, but the first occurrence is usually the most severe.
HSV commonly affects the mouth and genitals, but it can affect many other parts of the body. Most people who get herpetic whitlow have an HSV infection in another part of the body that spreads to the fingers through a cut.
What are the causes?
This condition is caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 and HSV type 2. You can get herpetic whitlow if body fluids that are infected with either of these viruses get into your body through a break in the skin. Health care workers can get herpetic whitlow from touching