An's family explained that he got glue stuck to his middle finger. When he peeled it off, he tore the skin. A week later, he developed swelling and pain on the inside of his left elbow, a lump under his left arm, and a fever exceeding 40°C.

Doctor Tran Thuy Linh, a specialist at the Pediatrics Department of Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi, diagnosed An with cellulitis caused by bacteria entering the open wound on his finger. The skin damage exposed the underlying soft tissue, making it susceptible to infection.

"Although the wound on An's finger was small, it wasn't cleaned properly. This allowed bacteria to enter through the skin and travel through the lymphatic system to the lymph nodes, causing inflammation," Dr. Linh explained. The body then activated a strong immune response, resulting in swollen lymph nodes and fever. Untreated, the infection could delay healing and lead to more serious complications like cellulitis, osteomyelitis, lymphadenitis, and sepsis.

Dr. Linh examines An. Photo: Hospital provided

Dr. Linh examines An. Photo: Hospital provided

Treatment for an infected open wound depends on its location, severity, and duration. Doctors may prescribe medication, drainage of pus, wound debridement, or surgery. An was initially given oral antibiotics, fever reducers, and probiotics. However, due to his poor response, doctors switched to intravenous antibiotics, electrolyte replacement, and continued probiotics to protect his digestive system. After 4 days of treatment, his fever subsided, the swollen lymph nodes reduced in size, and he was discharged.

Dr. Linh recommends washing open wounds with clean water and covering them with sterile gauze before seeking medical advice at the nearest healthcare facility. She cautions against using unverified medications, strong antiseptics like iodine or hydrogen peroxide, or home remedies. If a wound shows signs of infection such as redness, pus, increased pain, fever, or swollen lymph nodes near the wound, or if it's slow to heal, immediate medical attention is necessary.

Trinh Mai