Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: August 16, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Blood Streak Under Nail Bed with Pain

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Subungual hematoma: This condition occurs when blood collects under the nail, often due to trauma, and is characterized by a blood streak or spot under the nail bed, accompanied by pain.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Nail bed laceration: A cut or tear in the nail bed can cause bleeding under the nail, leading to a blood streak and pain.
    • Subungual melanoma: Although less common, a melanoma under the nail can cause bleeding and pain, and may appear as a streak or spot under the nail bed.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • Subungual abscess or infection: An infection under the nail can cause pain, swelling, and bleeding, and if left untreated, can lead to serious complications, such as osteomyelitis or sepsis.
    • Subungual squamous cell carcinoma: A type of skin cancer that can occur under the nail, causing bleeding, pain, and other symptoms.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Psoriatic nail dystrophy: A condition that affects the nails, causing pitting, thickening, and other changes, including bleeding under the nail bed.
    • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): A chronic autoimmune disorder that can cause a range of symptoms, including nail changes, such as bleeding under the nail bed.
    • Antiphospholipid syndrome: A rare disorder that can cause blood clots and bleeding, including under the nail bed.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.