Question 1

What is Herpetic Whitlow?

Accepted Answer

Herpetic whitlow is a painful viral infection that causes blisters on the fingers and thumbs. It is caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 IgG with Reflex to HSV-2 Inhibition test is the most important test for diagnosis because it identifies which specific viral strain is causing the infection.

Question 2

What causes herpetic whitlow?

Accepted Answer

Herpetic whitlow is caused by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) entering through small cuts or breaks in the skin of the fingers or thumbs. HSV-1 is the same virus that commonly causes cold sores around the mouth, while HSV-2 typically causes genital herpes. The infection most often occurs when someone touches an active herpes sore on their own body or comes into contact with infected bodily fluids, which is why healthcare workers, dental professionals, and people who bite their nails or suck their thumbs are at higher risk.

Question 3

What is the best test for herpetic whitlow?

Accepted Answer

The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 IgG with Reflex to HSV-2 Inhibition test is the most important blood test for herpetic whitlow because it detects antibodies against both HSV-1 and HSV-2 and identifies which specific viral strain is causing your infection. This test looks for IgG antibodies that your immune system produces in response to herpes infection, and the reflex to HSV-2 inhibition provides additional specificity to confirm whether HSV-2 is present. Knowing which virus type you have helps your doctor understand the likely source of infection, predict recurrence patterns, and provide appropriate counseling about transmission risks to others.

Question 4

When should I get tested for herpetic whitlow?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you develop painful blisters or fluid-filled sores on your fingers or thumbs, especially if you have a history of oral or genital herpes, work in healthcare or dentistry, or have recently had contact with someone who has active herpes sores. Testing is also important if you experience burning, tingling, or redness on your finger before blisters appear, or if you have recurrent episodes of painful finger lesions. Early testing helps confirm the diagnosis, allows you to start treatment quickly to reduce symptoms and healing time, and prevents you from unknowingly spreading the virus to other parts of your body or to other people.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of herpetic whitlow?

Accepted Answer

The symptoms of herpetic whitlow typically begin with redness, swelling, and tenderness on one or more fingers, followed by the appearance of small, painful blisters filled with clear or cloudy fluid. You might experience burning, tingling, or itching sensations before the blisters appear, and the affected finger may become extremely painful and sensitive to touch. Other symptoms can include fever, swollen lymph nodes in the arm or armpit, and general feeling of being unwell. The blisters usually cluster together and may merge into larger sores that eventually crust over and heal within 2-3 weeks, though the virus remains dormant in your body and can cause recurrent outbreaks.

Question 6

Who is at risk for herpetic whitlow?

Accepted Answer

Healthcare workers and dental professionals are at highest risk for herpetic whitlow because they frequently come into contact with oral secretions and may be exposed to HSV-1 through patient care. Children who suck their thumbs or bite their nails are also at increased risk, especially if they have oral herpes or cold sores. People with existing oral or genital herpes infections can spread the virus to their own fingers through autoinoculation, particularly during active outbreaks. Other risk factors include having a weakened immune system, eczema or other skin conditions that create breaks in the skin, and occupations that involve frequent handwashing or wet work that can damage the skin barrier on fingers.

Question 7

What happens if herpetic whitlow is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

If left untreated, herpetic whitlow typically heals on its own within 2-4 weeks, but the infection can be extremely painful and may cause complications. The virus remains dormant in your nerve cells and can reactivate, causing recurrent outbreaks that may be triggered by stress, illness, or injury to the affected finger. Untreated herpetic whitlow can spread to other fingers, other parts of your body like your eyes (causing serious eye infections), or to other people through direct contact. In severe cases or in people with weakened immune systems, the infection can lead to bacterial superinfection, permanent nerve damage, or spread to deeper tissues causing more serious complications that require hospitalization.

Question 8

Can herpetic whitlow be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, herpetic whitlow can be confirmed with a blood test that detects antibodies to herpes simplex virus. While doctors often diagnose herpetic whitlow by examining the characteristic appearance of the painful blisters on your finger, blood tests like the HSV-1 and HSV-2 IgG antibody test help confirm the diagnosis and identify which specific virus type is causing the infection. Blood tests are particularly useful when the physical examination is unclear, when you have recurrent episodes and need confirmation, or when you want to know if you have been exposed to herpes in the past. The presence of IgG antibodies indicates past or current infection and helps guide treatment decisions and prevention strategies.

Question 9

How is herpetic whitlow treated?

Accepted Answer

Herpetic whitlow is treated with antiviral medications like acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir, which work best when started within the first 48-72 hours of symptom onset. These medications help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, speed healing, and decrease the risk of recurrent outbreaks. Your doctor may also recommend pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage discomfort, and keeping the affected finger clean and covered with a bandage to prevent spreading the virus. For people who experience frequent recurrences, suppressive antiviral therapy taken daily can help prevent outbreaks. It is important to avoid popping or draining the blisters yourself, as this can spread the infection and increase the risk of bacterial complications.

Question 10

How can I prevent herpetic whitlow?

Accepted Answer

You can prevent herpetic whitlow by avoiding direct contact with herpes sores on yourself or others, including cold sores, genital herpes lesions, and active outbreaks on other parts of the body. Healthcare workers and dental professionals should always wear gloves when examining patients or handling bodily fluids. If you have oral or genital herpes, avoid touching active sores and wash your hands immediately if contact occurs, and do not bite your nails, suck your thumbs, or put your fingers in your mouth during an outbreak. Taking daily antiviral medication can reduce viral shedding and lower your risk of spreading herpes to your fingers. Keep your hands moisturized and avoid excessive handwashing that creates cracks in the skin where the virus can enter.

Question 11

What can I do at home for herpetic whitlow?

Accepted Answer

At home, you can manage herpetic whitlow symptoms by keeping the affected finger clean and dry, applying cool compresses or ice packs wrapped in a towel to reduce pain and swelling, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. Cover the blisters with a clean bandage to protect them from further injury and prevent spreading the virus to other areas or people, and avoid activities that put pressure on the affected finger. Keep the area dry and avoid soaking your hand in water for extended periods, as moisture can slow healing. Natural support includes getting adequate rest, staying hydrated, and eating a healthy diet rich in lysine-containing foods like fish, chicken, and legumes while limiting arginine-rich foods like nuts and chocolate, which some people find may trigger outbreaks.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
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                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
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            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
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            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
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            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
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            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Herpetic Whitlow Blood Test

What is Herpetic Whitlow?

What causes herpetic whitlow?

What is the best test for herpetic whitlow?

When should I get tested for herpetic whitlow?

References

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