The assessment of bruising in primary care

A haematoma, from the Greek haem - (blood) and - oma (tumour or mass), is a collection of blood outside the capillaries. A bruise is a haematoma under intact skin within subcutaneous tissues, usually from vascular damage. Bruising is common in general practice, often trauma-related, but may indicate underlying pathology. Clinicians must differentiate between benign and serious causes. This article outlines the assessment, diagnosis and management of bruising in general practice, focusing on at-risk groups, bias reduction and emerging technologies that may shape future community-based care.