Splinter hemorrhages

Alternative names:

fingernail hemorrhage

Home care:

There is no particular care for splinter hemorrhages. Strictly adhere to your health care provider's instructions for the treatment of endocarditis.

Call your health care provider if:

• you notice splinter hemorrhages!

Note: Splinter hemorrhages generally are a late-appearing symptom in endocarditis. It is probable that other symptoms causing a visit to the health care provider will have appeared before the appearance of splinter hemorrhages.

What to expect at your health care provider's office:

The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting splinter hemorrhage in detail may include:

• When did you first notice this?
• Do you have a known diagnosis of endocarditis, or has this diagnosis been suspected by your health care provider?
• What other symptoms are also present?

Physical examination may include special attention to the heart and blood circulation systems.

Laboratory studies may include:

• CBC
• ESR
• blood cultures

In addition, your health care provider may order:

• chest X-ray
• cardiac ultrasound
• ECG

After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to splinter hemorrhages to your personal medical record.