Bite wound, infected complications

Complications of infected bite wounds include lymphangitis, abscess, septic arthritis, tenosynovitis, and osteomyelitis. Bites to the hand are particularly complication-prone.43,44... 

The goals of therapy for an infected bite wound are rapid and successful eradication of infection and prevention of related complications. 

Thorough irrigation with normal saline is the first step in the care of an infected bite wound. The wound should be elevated and immobilized. Surgical closure may be advocated, especially for facial wounds. Wounds that are infected, at higher risk for infection, or older than 24 hours should be left open because premature closure can lead to disastrous infectious complications.43... 

Bite wounds have a substantial potential for infectious complications. If left untreated, complications such as soft tissue infection and osteomyelitis may occur, possibly requiring extensive debridement or amputation. Approximately half the population in the United States will be bitten by either an animal or another human sometime during their lifetimes. " ... 

---