[Hand infections in children].

Subcuticular whitlow is the most frequent form of hand infections in children, mainly resulting from the penetration of a foreign body such as a thorn bush or onychophagy. Local antispesis, Dakin's fluid baths and eventually antibiotics directed toward Staphylococcus aureus are usually effective therapies. Extension to a subcutaneous whitflow needs surgery. Specific treatment must be used in case of fungal and herpetic whitlows. Paronychia tendinosa is a severe form of infection affecting flexor tendons sheaths with a high risk of sequelae; it requires an emergency surgical excision and i.v. anti-Staphylococcus aureus antibiotics therapy. Hand bites need particular attention and systematic surgical advice.