DEEP SPACE INFECTION Flashcards
Deep Spaces of Hand
Thenar
Hypothenar
Midpalmar
Mechanism
Direct inoculation
Contiguous spread
Etiology
S. Aureus
Strep sp.
Anaerobes
Why are deep space infections commonly misdiagnosed as cellulitis?
Dorsum of and often swells with inflammatory or infectious process of the hand due to veins and lymphatics
Deeper structures of the palmar aspect of the hand are missed
Clinical Features
Palpation of the volar aspect of the hand elicits tenderness, induration or fluctuance
Range of motion often produces marked pain
Management
Send any spontaneous exudate for Gram stain and culture
Immobilize and elevate the extremity
Ampicillin-Sulbactam
1.5 g IV q 6 h
OR
Pip-tazo
3.375 g q 6 h
PLUS
Vancomycin
1 g IV q 12 hrs
IF MRSA IS SUSPECTED
Admit and consult plastics