Purpura of the nail bed is a condition that refers to the presence of red, blue, or purple spots or lines under the nails. These spots are caused by bleeding within the nail bed or surrounding tissues and can be a sign of various underlying medical conditions. In this article, we will discuss the main definition and types of purpura of the nail bed, as well as their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
Definition
Purpura of the nail bed is a medical condition that refers to the presence of hemorrhagic spots or lines under the nails. These spots are caused by bleeding within the nail bed or surrounding tissues and can be a sign of various underlying medical conditions. Purpura of the nail bed is often associated with other skin and systemic manifestations, and its diagnosis requires a thorough physical examination and laboratory testing.
Types
Purpura of the nail bed can be classified into several types, based on the appearance and location of the hemorrhagic spots. The main types of purpura of the nail bed include:
- Splinter hemorrhages: These are thin, reddish-brown lines that run vertically under the nail. They are caused by bleeding within the nail bed and are often associated with systemic diseases such as endocarditis, lupus erythematosus, or vasculitis.
- Subungual hematoma: This is a localized collection of blood under the nail, which can cause pain, pressure, and discoloration of the nail. Subungual hematomas are often caused by trauma or injury to the nail bed, and can be treated by draining the blood with a sterile needle or surgical procedure.
- Nail fold purpura: This is a type of purpura that affects the skin around the nails. It presents as small, flat, reddish-purple spots or patches on the nail folds, and can be caused by various conditions such as connective tissue diseases, vasculitis, or thrombocytopenia.
- Petechiae: These are small, round, red or purple spots that appear on the skin or mucous membranes, including the nail bed. Petechiae are caused by bleeding from the small blood vessels, and can be a sign of various medical conditions such as infection, inflammation, or bleeding disorders.
Causes
The main causes of purpura of the nail bed.
- Trauma: Trauma to the nail bed is one of the most common causes of purpura of the nail bed. Trauma can be caused by activities such as nail biting, vigorous rubbing, or hitting the nail with a hard object. When the nail bed is injured, blood vessels in the area can rupture, causing blood to leak into the surrounding tissues and resulting in the formation of a purplish-red spot.
- Infections: Infections are another common cause of purpura of the nail bed. Bacterial infections such as cellulitis or paronychia, which are characterized by redness, swelling, and tenderness around the nail bed, can lead to the formation of purpura. Viral infections such as herpes simplex virus can also cause purpura of the nail bed.
- Medications: Certain medications can cause purpura of the nail bed as a side effect. Anticoagulant medications such as warfarin or heparin, which are used to prevent blood clots, can cause bleeding under the skin, including the nail bed. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen can also increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
- Blood disorders: Blood disorders such as thrombocytopenia, hemophilia, and von Willebrand disease can cause purpura of the nail bed. Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by low levels of platelets, which can lead to easy bruising and bleeding. Hemophilia is a genetic disorder that affects the ability of blood to clot, leading to bleeding episodes. Von Willebrand disease is a disorder that affects the function of von Willebrand factor, a protein that is important for blood clotting.
- Vasculitis: Vasculitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the blood vessels, which can cause damage to the blood vessel walls and lead to bleeding. When vasculitis affects the blood vessels in the nail bed, it can cause purpura. Vasculitis can be caused by a wide range of factors, including infections, autoimmune disorders, and certain medications.
- Autoimmune disorders: Autoimmune disorders such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and scleroderma can cause purpura of the nail bed. These conditions are characterized by an overactive immune system that attacks healthy tissues in the body, including the blood vessels in the nail bed. This can lead to the formation of purpura.
- Cancer: Certain types of cancer, such as leukemia and lymphoma, can cause purpura of the nail bed. These cancers can affect the blood cells, leading to a decreased ability of the blood to clot and an increased risk of bleeding.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Nutritional deficiencies such as vitamin C deficiency can cause purpura of the nail bed. Vitamin C is important for the health of the blood vessels, and a deficiency can lead to weakened blood vessels and an increased risk of bleeding.
- Aging: As we age, the blood vessels in the nail bed become more fragile and prone to rupturing, which can lead to the formation of purpura.
Some of the underlying medical conditions that can cause purpura of the nail bed include:
- Vasculitis: This is a condition that involves inflammation of the blood vessels, which can damage the walls of the vessels and cause bleeding. Vasculitis can affect any part of the body, including the nails.
- Endocarditis: This is an infection of the heart valves, which can cause small, red or purple spots to appear on the skin or nails.
- Scleroderma: This is a condition that involves the hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissue, which can affect the blood vessels in the nail bed.
- Lupus: This is an autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation of the blood vessels, leading to bleeding and purpura.
- Thrombocytopenia: This is a condition in which the body has a low number of platelets, which are essential for blood clotting. Without enough platelets, the blood vessels can easily become damaged and bleed, leading to purpura.
- Trauma: Any injury to the nail bed, such as from hitting the nail with a hammer or getting a finger caught in a door, can cause purpura.
Symptoms
The main symptoms of purpura of the nail bed in detail.
- Discoloration of the nails
The most common symptom of purpura of the nail bed is a discoloration of the nails. The nails may appear reddish-brown, purple, or black, depending on the severity of the bleeding. The discoloration is usually seen in the form of streaks or lines that run vertically or horizontally on the nail bed.
- Pain or tenderness
Purpura of the nail bed can also cause pain or tenderness around the nails. This is especially true if the bleeding is severe or if the condition is accompanied by an infection. The pain may be felt in the nail bed, the surrounding skin, or the fingertip.
- Swelling
Swelling around the nail bed is another common symptom of purpura of the nail bed. The swelling is usually caused by the accumulation of blood under the nail. It can make it difficult to use the affected finger or toe and may cause discomfort or pain.
- Nail splitting or cracking
In some cases, purpura of the nail bed can cause the nails to split or crack. This is because the bleeding under the nail can cause pressure to build up, which can weaken the nail and make it more prone to damage.
- Fever
If purpura of the nail bed is caused by an infection, it can lead to a fever. A fever is a sign that the body is trying to fight off the infection. Other symptoms of an infection may include redness, warmth, and pus around the affected nail.
- Nail deformities
If left untreated, purpura of the nail bed can cause permanent nail deformities. This can include ridges, bumps, or discoloration of the nails. In severe cases, the nails may even become detached from the nail bed.
- Systemic symptoms
In rare cases, purpura of the nail bed can be a sign of a more serious underlying health issue, such as an autoimmune disorder or a blood disorder. In these cases, the condition may be accompanied by other systemic symptoms, such as fatigue, joint pain, or weight loss.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of purpura of the nail bed typically involves a thorough physical examination, along with laboratory tests to rule out underlying conditions. In this article, we will discuss the main list of diagnosis and lab tests for purpura of the nail bed.
Physical Examination
The diagnosis of purpura of the nail bed starts with a thorough physical examination of the affected nail. The healthcare provider will examine the nail for any signs of trauma, such as a recent injury, or signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. They will also look for any signs of systemic illness, such as fever or joint pain.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A complete blood count is a standard test that measures the different types of cells in the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. An abnormal CBC result can indicate an underlying medical condition that may be causing the purpura. For example, a low platelet count, known as thrombocytopenia, can lead to bleeding disorders and cause purpura. An elevated white blood cell count can be a sign of infection, and anemia can indicate an underlying autoimmune disease.
- Coagulation Studies
Coagulation studies measure the blood’s ability to clot. An abnormal coagulation profile can indicate a bleeding disorder, which can lead to purpura. The two most commonly used coagulation studies are the prothrombin time (PT) and the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). These tests measure the time it takes for the blood to clot.
- Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) Test
The antinuclear antibody (ANA) test measures the presence of antibodies in the blood that attack the body’s own cells and tissues. An elevated ANA level can indicate an underlying autoimmune disease, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which can cause purpura.
- Rheumatoid Factor (RF) Test
The rheumatoid factor (RF) test measures the presence of antibodies in the blood that attack the body’s own tissues, particularly the joints. An elevated RF level can indicate an underlying autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis, which can cause purpura.
- Hepatitis Panel
A hepatitis panel is a blood test that measures the presence of antibodies to the hepatitis A, B, and C viruses. Hepatitis B and C can cause liver inflammation, which can lead to purpura.
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Test
The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) test measures the presence of antibodies to the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV infection can lead to a weakened immune system, which can make the body more susceptible to infections that can cause purpura.
- Complete Metabolic Panel (CMP)
A complete metabolic panel (CMP) is a blood test that measures various electrolytes, enzymes, and other substances in the blood, such as liver and kidney function tests. An abnormal CMP result can indicate an underlying medical condition that may be causing the purpura.
- Skin Biopsy
A skin biopsy involves removing a small sample of skin tissue from the affected area for laboratory analysis. The biopsy can help identify the underlying cause of the purpura, such as vasculitis or an infection.
Lab tests:
The following are the main lab tests used to diagnose the underlying cause of purpura of the nail bed:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): A CBC measures the number of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets in the blood. A low platelet count can indicate thrombocytopenia, which can cause purpura of the nail bed.
- Coagulation Studies: Coagulation studies measure the blood’s ability to clot. Abnormal coagulation tests can indicate an underlying bleeding disorder, which can cause purpura of the nail bed.
- Blood Culture: Blood cultures are used to identify the presence of bacteria in the blood. If bacteria are present, it can indicate an infectious cause of purpura of the nail bed.
- Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) Test: ANA tests detect the presence of autoantibodies in the blood, which can indicate the presence of an autoimmune disorder.
- Vitamin Levels: Blood tests can measure the levels of vitamin C and vitamin K in the blood. Low levels of these vitamins can cause purpura of the nail bed.
Treatment
The treatment of purpura of the nail bed depends on the underlying cause, and in this article, we will discuss the main treatment options in detail.
- Treating underlying medical conditions: Purpura of the nail bed can be a sign of an underlying medical condition such as vasculitis, endocarditis, or connective tissue disorders. Treating the underlying condition is often the first step in managing the purpura. For example, if the purpura is caused by vasculitis, the primary treatment will be immunosuppressive medications such as corticosteroids or cyclophosphamide.
- NSAIDs gel: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to manage pain and inflammation associated with purpura of the nail bed. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen can be taken orally or applied topically as a gel.
- Topical steroids: Topical steroids such as hydrocortisone can be applied to the affected nail bed to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
- Antibiotics: If the purpura of the nail bed is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. Antibiotics are medications that are used to treat bacterial infections. There are various types of antibiotics available, including penicillins, cephalosporins, macrolides, and tetracyclines. The choice of antibiotic depends on the type of bacteria causing the infection and the severity of the infection. Antibiotics can be taken orally or applied topically to the affected area.
- Antifungal medication: If the purpura of the nail bed is caused by a fungal infection, antifungal medication may be prescribed. Antifungal medication is used to treat fungal infections. There are various types of antifungal medications available, including topical and oral medications. The choice of medication depends on the type of fungus causing the infection and the severity of the infection.
- Anticoagulants: If the purpura of the nail bed is caused by a blood clotting disorder, anticoagulants may be prescribed. Anticoagulants are medications that are used to prevent blood clots from forming or to dissolve existing blood clots. There are various types of anticoagulants available, including warfarin, heparin, and dabigatran. The choice of anticoagulant depends on the underlying condition and the severity of the clotting disorder.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs are medications that are used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. If the purpura of the nail bed is caused by an autoimmune disorder or inflammation, NSAIDs may be prescribed. There are various types of NSAIDs available, including aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. The choice of NSAID depends on the severity of the inflammation and the patient’s medical history.
- Steroids: Steroids are medications that are used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. If the purpura of the nail bed is caused by an autoimmune disorder or severe inflammation, steroids may be prescribed. There are various types of steroids available, including prednisone, dexamethasone, and methylprednisolone. The choice of steroid depends on the severity of the inflammation and the patient’s medical history.
- Immunosuppressants: Immunosuppressants are medications that are used to suppress the immune system. If the purpura of the nail bed is caused by an autoimmune disorder, immunosuppressants may be prescribed. There are various types of immunosuppressants available, including methotrexate, azathioprine, and cyclosporine. The choice of immunosuppressant depends on the severity of the autoimmune disorder and the patient’s medical history.
- Vitamin supplements: If the purpura of the nail bed is caused by a vitamin deficiency, vitamin supplements may be prescribed. There are various types of vitamin supplements available, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K. The choice of vitamin supplement depends on the underlying deficiency and the
- Antiplatelet therapy: Antiplatelet medications such as aspirin can be used to prevent the formation of blood clots that may contribute to the development of purpura of the nail bed.
- Laser therapy: Laser therapy can be used to treat purpura of the nail bed caused by underlying medical conditions such as connective tissue disorders. The laser helps to strengthen the walls of the blood vessels and reduce the risk of bleeding.
- Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy, or the application of cold to the affected area, can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with purpura of the nail bed.
- Surgery: In severe cases of purpura of the nail bed, surgery may be required to remove the affected nail or repair the underlying blood vessels.
- Avoiding trauma: In cases where trauma is the underlying cause of purpura of the nail bed, avoiding further trauma to the nail bed is essential to prevent recurrence of the condition.
Dorsal Pterygium
