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Boils, carbuncles, folliculitis, paronychia and staphylococcal whitlow - Management
How do I manage staphylococcal whitlow with fluctuance?
- Refer for incision and drainage; only attempt in primary care if skilled in incising and draining staphylococcal whitlows.
- In addition, treat empirically with oral antibiotics.
- Referral for IV antibiotics should be considered if oral antibiotics fail, the person is unwell, or proximal lymphangitis or cellulitis is present.
- Urgently discuss management with a specialist if complications (e.g. osteomyelitis, skin necrosis, sinus tract formation, septic joint, tenosynovitis, compartment syndrome) are suspected.
- Offer analgesia (paracetamol or ibuprofen) if needed.
In depth
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