Purulent dactylitis is a purulent infection of the subcutaneous tissue on the metacarpal surface of the terminal phalanges of the fingers. It is often caused by secondary infection following an exacerbation of nail fungus, injury to the skin of the fingertip or end finger.
In the early stages, the affected finger is red, mildly swollen and painful with pins and needles. If treated promptly, purulent dactylitis can have a good outcome. If not treated promptly, it can often lead to ischaemic necrosis of the finger bone, resulting in chronic osteomyelitis and a long-lasting wound.