Causes and treatments of herpetic whitlow The major cause of whitlow is herpes simplex virus. The skin around the fingernail is mostly affected. Its early signs include severe pain around the fingers. Dermamtology Classroom Notes Stanford University Edubirdie Nail Abnormalities AFP Herpetic whitlow, sometimes called whitlow finger, is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. Click the link in the comments to learn more Herpetic Whitlow Condition, Treatments and Pictures for Adults Skinsight