Question

Infection of the index finger spreads to which space?

• A. Thenar space
• B. Mid palmar space
• C. Hypothenar space
• D. Flexion space

Hint:

Index finger drains radially to the thenar space; middle, ring and little drain to mid palmar.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: The palm has two potential fascial spaces deep to the long flexor tendons, separated by a fibrous septum running to the third metacarpal: the thenar space (radial) and the mid palmar space (ulnar).

Step 2: The thenar space communicates with the index finger through the lumbrical canal, while the mid palmar space communicates with the middle, ring and little fingers.

Step 3: Therefore a deep infection of the index finger tracks into and collects in the thenar space, whereas infection of the middle, ring or little finger spreads to the mid palmar space.

Step 4: The hypothenar space is small and not a usual site of spread, so the correct answer is the thenar space.