history

Last reviewed 01/2018

The following details are important in taking the history of a hand infection:

  • side infected, dominant hand
  • length of history
  • history of immunocompromise
  • occupational history:
    • fishmonger: prone to Mycobacterium marinarum
    • gardener: prone to blackthorn granuloma from splinter
    • dishwasher: chronic fungal paronychia likely due to repeated immersion in water
    • animal worker: exposed to anthrax, brucellosis, erysipeloid, orf and tuberculosis