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Human bites

Human bites

Overview

Human bites present a high risk of infection. Besides the bacteria which can cause infection, there is risk of injury to tendons and joints when the wound extends below the skin. Anytime a human bite has broken the skin, seek medical attention.

Review Date 4/3/2024

Updated by: Jesse Borke, MD, CPE, FAAEM, FACEP, Attending Physician at Kaiser Permanente, Orange County, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.