contusion (bruise)

Introduction

A slight bleeding into the tissues with the skin remaining unbroken.

Etiology

• falls
• risk factors in elderly
  • gait ataxia
  • thinning of epidermis
  • reduced subcutaneous fat
  • increased capillary fragility
  • medications
    • warfarin
    • NSAIDs
• physical abuse
  • elder abuse
  • child abuse
  • domestic violence

Epidemiology

• common in elderly

Clinical manifestations

• in the elderly
  • 89% of accidental bruises on the extremities
  • no accidental bruises on the neck, genitalia, buttocks or soles of the feet
  • elderly more likely to recall circumstances of large bruise (5-20 cm) on trunk
• color of the bruise varies with time after injury
  • on day 1, 16% of bruises are yellow
  • reddish coloration accompanies bruises at all phases

Management

• preventive measures
• ensure safety of patient

More general terms

• trauma

More specific terms

• brainstem contusion
• cerebellar contusion
• cerebral contusion
• myocardial contusion
• pulmonary contusion

Additional terms

• hematoma