Idiopathic splinter hemorrhages

J Am Acad Dermatol. 2004 Feb;50(2):289-92. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2003.07.012.

Abstract

Splinter hemorrhages are non-blanchable usually distal reddish-brown linear hemorrhages beneath the nails. Among a variety of etiologic factors reported, trauma is the most common cause. A 26-year-old Hispanic female presented with asymptomatic, extensive fingernail hemorrhages of two months duration. There was no history of physical trauma to the nails. Treatment with a topical antifungal medication for one month produced no improvement. The past medical history was noncontributory. Extensive laboratory testing revealed no underlying systemic disease. Three months after the initial presentation, 6 of 10 fingernails showed signs of resolution without treatment. We conclude that idiopathic atraumatic subungual splinter hemorrhages can occur in healthy individuals. Spontaneous resolution occurred in our patient.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Hemorrhage / etiology*
  • Hemorrhage / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Nail Diseases / etiology*
  • Nail Diseases / pathology*
  • Remission, Spontaneous