What does ecchymosis refer to?

Ecchymosis refers to a type of discoloration on the skin resulting from bleeding underneath the skin, which is commonly known as a bruise. This occurs when small blood vessels break due to trauma or injury, allowing blood to seep into the surrounding tissues. The telltale signs of ecchymosis include a change in color, ranging from red or purple to yellow or green as the bruise heals, which reflects the breakdown of hemoglobin in the blood. Understanding ecchymosis is important in clinical practice as it provides insight into the extent of tissue injury and can assist in diagnosing underlying medical issues, such as clotting disorders.