What causes swelling and purple color on finger?
Patient: Hi, I recently had swelling in my finger and thought it was an ingrown nail. It became worse so I went to am EMO (I am not at home and have no doctor in the area) and they tried to drain it. It became worse so I went to the ER the next day (yesterday) where he told me it was herpetic whitlow and prescribed me something for it. I have taken two doses today, but am nervous about my finger. It continues to swell and is now purple. I have some slight swelling on my hand as well. Doctor: Hello,I have studied your case. I think you need to see a skin specialist. These type of swelling is mostly due to following causes.1.Bacterial infection 2.Fungal infection  A skin physcian can examine your swelling and confirm the diagnosis. If there is bacterial infection than after drainage of abscess you will need antibiotics for six to ten days.If it is fungal infection than this may need treatment for longer time may be three months.If you can send me images of the finger, I can help you in diagnosis.Let me know if there is any other followup questions.thanks