Fungal infections of the hand

Fungal infections of the hand can range from simple cosmetic infection of the nails to life and limb-threatening deep space infections. Deep fungal infections are rare and mostly confined to immunocompromised patients. However, the practicing surgeon must have a high degree of suspicion to diagnose and treat these types of infection in an expeditious manner. This article reviews the recent relevant literature on fungal infections of the hand. Treatment typically includes early radical debridement and systemic antifungal therapy. This review highlights the principle that timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment of serious fungal infections of the upper extremity can result in limb salvage and prevention of mortality.