Dictionary > Haematoma

Haematoma

Definition
noun, plural: haematomas or haematomata or haematomae
A localised collection of blood, usually clotted, in an organ, space or tissue, due to a break in the wall of a blood vessel
Supplement
Haematoma is a localized collection of blood outside the blood vessel in an organ, space, or tissue. It is usually clotted. It results from a break in the wall of a blood vessel. Possible causes of blood vessel wall breakage leading to haematoma include trauma, disease, injury, and surgery. It begins in liquid form and then spreads among the tissues. It may then coagulate and solidify prior to reabsorption into the blood vessels.
Haematoma may be classified according to the degree affected. When only a small pinpoint of the skin (i.e. less than 3 mm in diameter), for instance, is affected, it is referred to as petechiae. When the haematoma is about 1 cm in diameter and generally round in shape it is referred to as purpura (bruise). When a hematoma of the skin is over 1 cm in diameter it is referred to as ecchymosis.
Word origin: Ancient Greek haímatos, haîma (blood), and Ancient Greek -ōma (denoting disease)
Variant(s):

  • hematoma

See also:

  • petechia
  • purpura
  • ecchymosis
  • haemorrhage
  • haemangioma
  • Related term(s):

    • Scalp haematoma
    • Subgaleal haematoma
    • Haematoma epidural
    • Haematoma subdural


    You will also like...

    Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes
    Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes

    Learn about the general structure of a eukaryotic gene, the transcription factors, and post-transcriptional regulation....

    DNA carries genes coding for proteins
    Genetic Information and Protein Synthesis

    Genes are expressed through the process of protein synthesis. This elaborate tutorial provides an in-depth review of the..

    Biological Energy
    ATP & ADP – Biological Energy

    ATP is the energy source that is typically used by an organism in its daily activities. The name is based on its structu..

    Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand
    New Zealand’s Unique Geographical History

    Explore why New Zealand has such unique flora and fauna, and learn why long periods of geographical isolation. This less..

    Birth of a Human Baby
    Birth of a Human Baby

    Following nine months inside the mother's womb is the birth of the baby. Know the different stages of the birthing proce..

    The Human Physiology
    The Human Physiology

    Physiology is the study of how living organisms function. Thus, human physiology deals specifically with the physiologic..

    Related Articles...

    No related articles found

    See all Related Topics