Medical Author: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor
Medically Reviewed on 10/25/2022
Doctor's Notes on Hematoma
A hematoma is a collection of blood outside of a blood vessel. Hematomas can occur anywhere in the body and are often described by their location, such as subdural hematoma, epidural hematoma, intra-abdominal hematoma, or hepatic hematoma. Hematomas can be caused by bleeding due to any cause including:
- trauma or injury,
- defects in blood vessels, or
- problems with blood clotting.
Symptoms and signs of hematomas may include:
- bluish discoloration of the skin or
- a lump beneath the skin.
When the hematoma is present inside the skull cavity, associated symptoms and signs can include:
Signs and symptoms of a hematoma are very specific to the exact location within the body.
What Is the Treatment for Hematoma?
Treatment of a hematoma may involve the following to reduce further bleeding:
- Rest
- Ice packs
- Compression
- Elevation of the affected area
In some cases, a procedure may be required to remove blood from the area of the hematoma. Other treatments depend on the underlying cause of the hematoma and the presence of other associated injuries.
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REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.