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contusion (bruise)
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
Related
hematoma
Specific
brainstem contusion
cerebellar contusion
cerebral contusion
myocardial contusion
pulmonary contusion
General
trauma
References
- Geriatric Review Syllabus, 7th edition
Parada JT et al (eds)
American Geriatrics Society, 2010