What is the term for the fluid that may collect under the skin after a soft-tissue injury?

What is the term for the fluid that may collect under the skin after a soft-tissue injury?

• A. Seroma
• B. Hematoma
• C. Abscess
• D. Exudate

Answer: (B)

The fluid that may collect under the skin after a soft-tissue injury is known as hematoma. A hematoma occurs when blood leaks from damaged blood vessels and pools in the surrounding tissue, creating a localized swelling that can be tender to the touch and may become discolored as it heals. This pooling of blood can vary in size depending on the severity of the injury and the amount of bleeding. In contrast, a seroma refers to the accumulation of clear serous fluid that can develop post-surgery or injury, which is different from the blood found in a hematoma. An abscess is a collection of pus that forms due to infection, while exudate refers to fluid that leaks out of blood vessels during the inflammatory process, which may contain a mix of serum, proteins, and cells, but is not specific to soft-tissue injuries. Understanding these distinctions is essential for recognizing and managing various soft-tissue injuries properly.

The fluid that may collect under the skin after a soft-tissue injury is known as hematoma. A hematoma occurs when blood leaks from damaged blood vessels and pools in the surrounding tissue, creating a localized swelling that can be tender to the touch and may become discolored as it heals. This pooling of blood can vary in size depending on the severity of the injury and the amount of bleeding.

In contrast, a seroma refers to the accumulation of clear serous fluid that can develop post-surgery or injury, which is different from the blood found in a hematoma. An abscess is a collection of pus that forms due to infection, while exudate refers to fluid that leaks out of blood vessels during the inflammatory process, which may contain a mix of serum, proteins, and cells, but is not specific to soft-tissue injuries. Understanding these distinctions is essential for recognizing and managing various soft-tissue injuries properly.