What does ecchymosis indicate?

Ecchymosis refers to the seepage of blood into surrounding tissue, leading to discoloration of the skin. This condition typically results from trauma, which damages blood vessels and allows blood to leak into the interstitial tissues. The discoloration is usually observed as a bruise and can vary in color depending on the age of the injury.

Understanding ecchymosis is critical in medical investigations as it can provide insights into potential trauma, the severity of an injury, and the circumstances surrounding an individual's death. This is particularly relevant when determining the cause of death in a forensic context, as certain patterns of ecchymosis can indicate specific types of trauma or violent encounters.