Can Acrylic Nails Cause Splinter Hemorrhages

Splinter Hemorrhages: Causes and Clinical Significance

Introduction

Splinter hemorrhages are small, linear hemorrhages that appear under the nails. They are caused by damage to the nail matrix, which is the tissue responsible for nail growth. Splinter hemorrhages can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma, infection, and certain medications.

Causes of Splinter Hemorrhages

The most common cause of splinter hemorrhages is trauma, such as hitting a finger with a hammer or getting a manicure with acrylic nails. Acrylic nails can cause splinter hemorrhages because they can damage the nail matrix. Other causes of splinter hemorrhages include:

• Infection
• Certain medications, such as anticoagulants
• Medical conditions, such as vasculitis

Clinical Significance of Splinter Hemorrhages

In the past, splinter hemorrhages were considered a classic sign of infective endocarditis, an infection of the heart valves. However, splinter hemorrhages are now known to be a nonspecific finding that can be caused by a variety of factors. Splinter hemorrhages are not always a sign of serious illness, but they can be an indication of an underlying medical condition.

Diagnosis

Splinter hemorrhages are diagnosed based on their appearance. A doctor will examine the nails and ask about the patient's symptoms. If the doctor suspects that the splinter hemorrhages are caused by an underlying medical condition, they may order blood tests or other tests.

Treatment

The treatment for splinter hemorrhages depends on the underlying cause. If the splinter hemorrhages are caused by trauma, they will usually resolve on their own within a few weeks. If the splinter hemorrhages are caused by an infection, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics. If the splinter hemorrhages are caused by a medication, the doctor may change the medication or adjust the dosage.

Conclusion

Splinter hemorrhages are small, linear hemorrhages that appear under the nails. They are caused by damage to the nail matrix. The most common cause of splinter hemorrhages is trauma, but they can also be caused by infection, certain medications, and medical conditions. Splinter hemorrhages are not always a sign of serious illness, but they can be an indication of an underlying medical condition. If you have splinter hemorrhages, it is important to see a doctor to determine the cause and get appropriate treatment.