A haematoma is a localised collection of blood outside blood vessels, typically caused by injury. On the other hand, a contusion, often referred to as a bruise, occurs when small blood vessels under the skin break due to external force. Haematomas often exhibit localised swelling and skin discolouration, while contusions are recognisable by skin discolouration.
What is a Haematoma?
A haematoma is a medical condition characterised by a localised collection of blood outside blood vessels. Haematomas typically result from trauma, such as injuries sustained during falls, accidents or medical procedures.
The pathophysiology of a haematoma involves damage to blood vessels, which can vary from minor capillaries to larger arteries and veins. When a blood vessel is injured, it can lead to the escape of blood into the surrounding tissues. However, in the case of haematomas, the blood doesn’t disperse freely; instead, it accumulates in a confined space, often forming a palpable swelling. The pooling of blood in this manner can lead to localised swelling and skin discoloration.
Haematomas manifest with distinct signs and symptoms. The most common indicators include pain and discomfort at the site of the injury. This pain can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the haematoma. Additionally, swelling is a characteristic feature of haematomas, making the affected area appear visibly enlarged. Skin discolouration is another significant symptom, and the colour can vary from reddish-purple to bluish-black, reflecting the breakdown of blood and its byproducts within the haematoma.
What is a Contusion?
A contusion, often referred to as a bruise, is a type of injury that shares some similarities with haematomas but has its unique characteristics. A contusion occurs when small blood vessels, primarily capillaries, break beneath the skin’s surface due to an external force or injury.
The pathophysiology of a contusion is closely tied to the mechanism of injury. When a blunt force impacts the body, it can result in the rupture of these tiny blood vessels, allowing blood to escape and collect in the surrounding tissues. Unlike haematomas, which often have a well-defined space where blood pools, contusions are generally more diffuse and may not have a clear boundary.
Signs and symptoms of contusions are recognisable by the appearance of skin discolouration. The initial colour of a contusion is often reddish or purplish, which gradually changes to bluish or blackish hues. Pain and tenderness are common symptoms associated with contusions, especially when pressure is applied to the affected area. The intensity of these symptoms can vary depending on the depth and severity of the contusion.
Haematoma vs Contusion
When comparing a haematoma and contusion, it’s evident that both conditions involve the accumulation of blood outside the blood vessels, resulting from various types of injuries. However, there are distinct differences between the two:
- Pathophysiology: Haematomas involve the pooling of blood in a confined space due to damaged blood vessels, while contusions result from the breakage of small blood vessels under the skin.
- Signs and Symptoms: Haematomas typically lead to localised swelling and discolouration at the injury site, whereas contusions present as areas of skin discolouration, often referred to as bruises.
- Severity: The severity of both conditions can vary depending on the extent of the injury, but contusions are generally less severe than haematomas.
- Treatment: Treatment for both conditions may involve rest, ice and pain management, but haematomas may require drainage in more severe cases.