subungal hematoma
1. [noun] https://www.aocd.org/page/SubungualHematoma A subungual hematoma is a transient condition where blood and fluid collect underneath the fingernail or toenail. This is usually caused by a traumatic injury as in hitting your thumb with a hammer or stubbing a toe. It can also occur from wearing tight-fitting shoes which trap blood in the toes leading to an increased pressure within the blood vessels of the toes. In either case, the injury leads to the breakage of small blood vessels underneath the nail which leak blood into a potential space below the nail that causes discoloration of the nail and intense pressure
Frequently Asked Questions
How can everyday activities like walking in tight-fitting shoes lead to a subungual hematoma in the toes?
Repeated pressure from wearing tight shoes might cause blood vessels under the toenail to rupture. This allows blood to collect in the space beneath the nail, creating discoloration and a sensation of pressure during routine foot activity.
How does a subungual hematoma differ from other types of bruises on the foot?
A subungual hematoma is unique because it occurs specifically under the nail. Unlike soft tissue bruises, the blood is confined beneath a rigid toenail, which intensifies the pressure and results in notable nail discoloration.
How does the Latin origin of the term 'subungual' help clarify its connection to toenail injuries?
The term 'subungual' comes from Latin, where 'sub' means below and 'unguis' means nail. This etymology directly links the term to injuries that affect the area beneath the toenails, helping to understand its specific location on the foot.