Hematoma

Last updated on: 14.10.2024

Dieser Artikel auf Deutsch

Requires free registration (medical professionals only)

Please login to access all articles, images, and functions.

Our content is available exclusively to medical professionals. If you have already registered, please login. If you haven't, you can register for free (medical professionals only).


Requires free registration (medical professionals only)

Please complete your registration to access all articles and images.

To gain access, you must complete your registration. You either haven't confirmed your e-mail address or we still need proof that you are a member of the medical profession.

Finish your registration now

DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.

A hematoma is an accumulation of blood outside the bloodstream or in the tissue or cavity. A hematoma is an effusion of blood into tissue or an anatomical cavity due to increased bleeding after an accident or operation. Bleeding into the subcutaneous connective tissue is visible through the skin as a so-called "bruise". Hemoglobin degradation in the phagocytes then produces green biliverdin, from which yellow bilirubin is subsequently formed by reduction. This explains the typical color change of a hematoma. The bruise turns brown-red, purple, green and finally yellow before disappearing. Hematomas can lead to serious complications, depending on their extent and, above all, their location.

Last updated on: 14.10.2024