Differential Diagnosis for Blood Under Fingernail
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Subungual hematoma: This condition occurs when blood collects under the nail due to injury, trauma, or a crush accident. It's the most common cause of blood under the fingernail and is often associated with a history of recent trauma to the finger.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Nail biting or picking: Frequent biting or picking at the nails can cause small injuries that lead to bleeding under the nail.
- Onychomycosis: Fungal infections of the nail can cause lifting of the nail plate, leading to bleeding underneath.
- Psoriasis: Nail psoriasis can cause changes in the nail, including pitting, thickening, and separation from the nail bed, potentially leading to bleeding.
- Trauma: Any form of trauma to the finger, such as a blow or a crush injury, can cause bleeding under the nail.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Subungual melanoma: Although rare, this is a form of skin cancer that can present with bleeding under the nail. It's crucial to not miss this diagnosis due to its potential severity and the importance of early treatment.
- Endocarditis: Infective endocarditis can cause embolic phenomena, including splinter hemorrhages under the nails, which might be mistaken for subungual hematoma.
- Vasculitis: Certain types of vasculitis can affect the small blood vessels under the nails, leading to bleeding.
Rare Diagnoses
- Scurvy: Vitamin C deficiency can lead to poor wound healing and bleeding under the nails, among other symptoms.
- Sickle cell disease: This genetic disorder can cause vaso-occlusive crises, potentially leading to infarcts under the nail and subsequent bleeding.
- Antiphospholipid syndrome: This autoimmune disorder can increase the risk of blood clots and may cause bleeding under the nails due to thrombocytopenia or vasculopathy.