Splinter hemorrhage

Splinter hemorrhage (or splinter haemorrhage) is a condition characterized by small areas of bleeding (hemorrhage) underneath the fingernails or toenails. These hemorrhages may be caused by tiny damages to the blood vessels under the nail.

Causes

Splinter hemorrhages are typically caused by damage to the nails, but can also be a result of a number of different medical conditions. These include endocarditis, vasculitis, scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis. Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and anticoagulants, can also cause splinter hemorrhages.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of a splinter hemorrhage is the appearance of thin, red to reddish-brown lines of blood under the nails. These lines may run in the direction of nail growth. They are usually painless, although some people may experience discomfort or pain if the underlying cause of the hemorrhage is a disease or condition that affects the blood vessels or nerves.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of splinter hemorrhages is typically made through a physical examination of the nails. In some cases, a doctor may need to remove a small piece of the nail for further examination under a microscope. If a systemic disease is suspected as the cause, further tests may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment for splinter hemorrhages depends on the underlying cause. If the hemorrhages are caused by a systemic disease, treatment will focus on managing that disease. If the hemorrhages are caused by medication, the doctor may recommend changing the medication or adjusting the dosage. In some cases, no treatment is necessary and the hemorrhages will heal on their own.

See also

• Nail disease
• Nail anatomy
• Subungual hematoma

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