Herpetic whitlow is a herpes simplex virus infection of the finger. It may be 
caused by either herpes simplex type 1 or 2. It is characterized by pain, 
erythema, and nonpurulent vesicle or bullae formation. It may be due to a 
primary or recurrent infection. It is a common infection in health care 
professionals who have frequent contact with the secretions of patients' mouths 
and respiratory tracts. The diagnosis of herpetic whitlow may be confirmed by 
Tzanck test, acute and convalescent herpes simplex antibody titers, viral 
culture, and fluorescent antibody tests. The infection is self-limited, and 
surgical intervention generally should be avoided. Techniques for prevention and 
control of the infection include appropriate isolation of patients with herpes 
infections, avoidance of patient care by health care personnel with active 
infections, and the use of gloves when handling secretions.