Causes
Bursitis normally develops as a result either of a single injury to the elbow (for example, a hard blow to the tip of the elbow), or perhaps more commonly due to repeated minor injuries, such as repeated leaning on the point of the elbow on a hard surface. The chance of developing bursitis is higher if ones job or hobby involves a repetitive movement (for example, tennis, golf, or even repetitive computer work involving leaning on ones elbow). The likelihood of developing the condition is increased as one gets older.As a reaction to injury, the lining of the bursa becomes inflamed. It then secretes a much greater than normal amount of fluid into the closed cavity of the bursa, from where it has nowhere to go. The bursa therefore inflates, producing a swelling over the proximal end of the ulna which is usually inflamed and tender.Another possible cause of inflammation of the bursa is infection, which can usually (but not always) be traced to a crack or other lesion in the skin which allowed for bacteria of the normal skin flora to invade deeper layers of tissue.This bursa is located just over the extensor aspect of the extreme proximal end of the ulna. In common with other bursae, it is impalpable and contains only a very small amount of fluid in its normal state, and fulfills the function of facilitating the joints movement by enabling anatomical structures to glide more easily over each other. Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually based on symptoms.
A hangnail is a tiny, torn piece of skin next to a fingernail or toenail, related to ingrown nails. The hangnails other scientific names are: eponychium or paronychium. Hangnails are typically caused by having dry skin, or by trauma to the fingers, such as paper cuts or nail biting. Presentation
Complications
Hangnails can become infected and cause paronychia, a type of skin infection that occurs around the nails. Treatments for paronychia vary with severity, but may include soaking in hot salty water, the use of oral antibiotic medication, or clinical lancing. Paronychia itself rarely results in further complications but can lead to abscess, permanent changes to the shape of the nail, or the spread of infection. Hangnails may also hurt if pulled, as they may remain firmly attached to living skin. Prevention
Daily use of hand lotion (or hand cream) or cuticle oil may help prevent the formation of hangnails. Treatment
For home treatment, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends washing the hands, clipping the loose piece of skin with a clean nail clipper or nail scissors, and applying over-the-counter antibiotic ointment if the area appears inflamed. Persistent hangnails should be evaluated by a physician. == References ==