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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Thumb Swollen, Turned Green, Had Cellulitis. Can It Be Infected By Insulin Needle?

My thumb is swollen and has turned green. I went to dr n was told I had celitius n given pain meds n antibiotics. Was told if not better n 3 days come back. I was just thinking about when my thumb first started hurting n then I remembered I got stuck by my brothers insulin needle. He is a diabetic but has stated he has illness the family does not know. My thumb is big n greener, I'm going back to the dr tomorrow or should I go to the ER right away. I was stuck 7 days ago
Mon, 11 Nov 2013
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Infectious Diseases Specialist,  's  Response
Hi,
Welcome to HCM.
Your symptoms are suggestive of cellulitis and your doctor has appropriately treated you. There is a possibility that the needle prick could have triggered the cellulitis. This infection is usually caused by bacteria which gain entry into skin through minor trauma.
If the cellulitis has not reduced even after antibiotic therapy then I would suggest culture sensitivity of the discharge from the thumb to find the appropriate antibiotics that can help clear the infection.
I suggest you get the test done and then get in touch with your GP for a change of prescription for effective antibiotics.

Thanks.
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Thumb Swollen, Turned Green, Had Cellulitis. Can It Be Infected By Insulin Needle?

Hi, Welcome to HCM. Your symptoms are suggestive of cellulitis and your doctor has appropriately treated you. There is a possibility that the needle prick could have triggered the cellulitis. This infection is usually caused by bacteria which gain entry into skin through minor trauma. If the cellulitis has not reduced even after antibiotic therapy then I would suggest culture sensitivity of the discharge from the thumb to find the appropriate antibiotics that can help clear the infection. I suggest you get the test done and then get in touch with your GP for a change of prescription for effective antibiotics. Thanks.