Hematoma

A hematoma, or haematoma, is a collection of blood, generally the result of hemorrhage. Hematomas exist as bruises (ecchymoses), but can also develop in organs.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Hematomas can gradually migrate, as the extravasated cells and pigment move in the connective tissue. For example, a patient who hurts the base of his thumb might cause an hematoma which will slowly move all through the finger within a week. Gravity is the main determinant of this process.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Hematomas on articulations can reduce mobility of a member and present roughly the same symptoms as a fracture.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Blood: Blood is a circulating tissue composed of fluid plasma and cells (red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets). Medical terms related to blood often begin in hemo- or hemato- (BE: haemo- and haemato-) from the Greek word "haima" for "blood"....

Hemorrhage: Hemorrhage (alternate spelling is Haemorrhage) is the medical term referring to the presence of blood in the interstitial tissues....

Bruise: A bruise or contusion or ecchymosis is a kind of injury, usually caused by blunt impact, in which the capillaries are damaged, allowing blood to seep into the surrounding tissue. Normally minor but painful, bruises can be serious, leading to hematoma, or can be associated with serious injuries, incl...