Mycobacterial Infections in the Hand and Wrist.

Hand Clin · Aug 2020 · Review

Bachoura A, Zelouf DS

The Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, 834 Chestnut Street

Hand & Upper Extremity

SUMMARY — THE REDUCTIONUncommon mycobacterial hand infections present indolently and nonspecifically, requiring high suspicion plus combined long-term antibiotics and surgical debridement to avoid treatment delays.
Abstract, as published

Mycobacterial hand infections are uncommon. These infections have an indolent course and are marked by variable and nonspecific presentations, often leading to diagnostic and treatment delays. The pathogens involved in mycobacterial hand infections include Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, atypical mycobacteria, and M leprae. Initial treatment involves a combination of long-term antibiotics and surgical débridement to cure the infection. Reconstructive procedures aid in restoring hand function lost secondary to the disease.

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