What is the primary difference between a hematoma and a contusion?

Enhance your trauma care skills with the Platinum Trauma Exam. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations. Prepare now!

Multiple Choice

What is the primary difference between a hematoma and a contusion?

A hematoma and a contusion differ by whether blood has formed a localized collection versus simply bleeding into tissue to cause discoloration. A hematoma is a localized pool of blood outside vessels that collects in a tissue or space, often producing a palpable lump. A contusion, or bruise, results from small-vessel rupture with blood leaking into the surrounding tissue and producing skin discoloration without a discrete blood-filled lump. In other words, contusion is the visible bruise from tissue injury, while hematoma is the actual buildup of blood in a space.

A hematoma and a contusion differ by whether blood has formed a localized collection versus simply bleeding into tissue to cause discoloration. A hematoma is a localized pool of blood outside vessels that collects in a tissue or space, often producing a palpable lump. A contusion, or bruise, results from small-vessel rupture with blood leaking into the surrounding tissue and producing skin discoloration without a discrete blood-filled lump. In other words, contusion is the visible bruise from tissue injury, while hematoma is the actual buildup of blood in a space.

More practice questions