It is commonly called a bruise.
Ecchymosis is different from a hematoma, which is a swollen, discolored area of clotted blood.
Both conditions are resulting from traumatic injury.
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Ecchymosis can occur anywhere there is skin, or in a mucous membrane, including the mouth.
Unlike hematoma, ecchymosis does not cause any raising of the skin.
They describe similar injuries, but they are not the same thing.
Illustration by Julie Bang for Verywell Health
Ecchymosis is sparked by blood leaking into the tissues due to disordered cell function or trauma.
When resulting from trauma, ecchymosis is commonly referred to as a bruise or contusion.
Hematoma is similar, but it is triggered by large amounts of blood pooling under the skin.
Hematomas are raised and painful when touched.
Bruises/ecchymosis are flat, while hematomas look swollen.
Hematomas can also form after a surgical procedure.
Ecchymosis can also be because of certain medical conditions.
Children are most likely to experience ecchymosis during the summer while engaged in summer sports and other activities.
Children living in temperate climates also tend to spend more time engaged in activities that can lead to bruising.
A blue, red, or purple hue typically is indicative of a fresh spot of ecchymosis.
Ecchymosis vs. Purpura
Purpura describes small spots that develop when blood vessels leak under the skin.
Purpura measure 4 to 10 mm in diameter, which ecchymoses are larger than 1 cm.
Treatment
Most instances of ecchymosis resolve without any intervention, as this injury is typically minor.
Another course of action may be to stop taking certain medications that may cause ecchymosis.
Prognosis
The prognosis for ecchymosis is typically very good.
In most cases, ecchymosis is minor and resolves relatively quickly in healthy individuals.
In these cases, you should be further evaluated for bleeding disorders, vitamin deficiencies, or cancer.
Most cases of ecchymosis are minor and cause little pain or swelling.
Most individuals experiencing minor ecchymosis must cope with temporary cosmetic changes due to discolored skin and bruises.
These bruises usually resolve entirely once the ecchymosis is healed and the blood has been redistributed under the skin.
This typically takes around two weeks.
Summary
Ecchymosis is a relatively common condition that may occur independent of an overlying medical condition.
In most cases, ecchymosis is not cause for concern.
Symptoms of ecchymosis resolve in time and are often due to minor soft tissue injuries.
A hematoma is a similar injury that causes discoloration and swelling under the skin.
Epperla N, Mazza JJ, Yale SH.A review of clinical signs related to ecchymosis.WMJ.
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MedlinePlus.Bleeding into the skin.
