Bruising: Diagnosis & Tests (Purpura, Hematoma, Ecchymoses, Contusion, Petechiae)

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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Medical Symptoms > Bruising: Diagnosis & Tests

Bruising

Alternate Names : Purpura, Hematoma, Ecchymoses, Contusion, Petechiae

Bruising | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

How is the symptom diagnosed?

Tests used to diagnose bruising will vary, depending on the suspected cause.

First, the healthcare provider will take a complete medical history, including any other symptoms or conditions that are present and any history of injury. A thorough physical exam, to evaluate for possible underlying conditions, will also be done.

The healthcare provider may also order X-rays, a bone biopsy, or a bone scan to evaluate for injury, tumors, or other conditions.

A spinal tap may be done to obtain a sample of cerebrospinal fluid, the fluid that surrounds the spinal column and brain. This fluid can be tested for infection and other conditions that cause bruising.

Usually, several blood tests will be ordered, such as:

prothrombin time (PT), or INR, which are tests of blood clotting

fibrinogen levels, to check for bleeding disorders

a complete blood count, or CBC, to check for abnormal white blood cells or platelets

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Author: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Reviewer: Melissa Sanders, PharmD
Date Reviewed: 07/27/01

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