No insect identified (Splinter Hemorrhage)

Found under fingernails or toenails

N/A (Not a living organism)

These are small areas of bleeding (hemorrhage) under the fingernails or toenails. They look like thin, red to reddish-brown lines of blood that run in the direction of nail growth. They are 'splinter-like' in appearance but move outward as the nail grows.

Risks: While often resulting from minor trauma (like hitting a finger), they can sometimes indicate underlying medical conditions such as infective endocarditis (a heart infection), vasculitis, or fungal nail infections. If they appear without injury or in multiple nails, medical consultation is advised.