Can Splinter Hemorrhages Be Benign?

They are visible when capillaries within the epidermal ridges leak (Figure 5). While splinter hemorrhages may denote benign problems such as local trauma, psoriasis, or localized fungal infection, they are a classic finding in patients with endocarditis (Figure 9).

Should I be worried about splinter hemorrhages?

Splinter hemorrhages caused by injury aren't a reason for concern. The nail will clear up as the injury heals. But sometimes a splinter hemorrhage indicates an underlying disease or disorder. If you didn't injure your toe or finger, the hemorrhage may result from conditions that can damage blood vessels.

What can splinter hemorrhages indicate?

Splinter haemorrhages are common signs of psoriatic nail disease and nail disease due to lichen planus [3]. They can also be associated with a tumour.