Hematoma vs. hyperemia vs. hemangioma

Published

I realize that this is probably a very loaded question, but here goes -

Could anyone explain to me the difference between the following 3 terms: hematoma, hyperemia, hemangioma. Esp the first 2.

I have read the definitions in my books. I think I understand them to a certain extent, but I am kind of wanting to hear it put in layman's terms. Would esp like to hear from any graduates out there who have already worked with and seen these 3 conditions, and what causes them, etc. (Of course, all responses are welcome.)

Again - very loaded question, I realize. But if you submit an answer, I'll give you a cookie.

Specializes in 5 yrs OR, ASU Pre-Op 2 yr. ER.

hematoma-- blood pooling under skin

hyperemia--eye redness

hemangioma--red birthmark

Hyperemia is an increase in blood flow to a part of the body, where a hematoma is a collection of blood under the skin (as in an injury).

Neither of these should be confused with hyphema, which is a pooling of blood in the anterior chamber of an injured eye.

hyperemia--eye redness

What's your source on that?

Specializes in 5 yrs OR, ASU Pre-Op 2 yr. ER.
What's your source on that?

webmd.com

Specializes in cardiac/critical care/ informatics.

hyperemia describes the increase of blood flow to different tissues in the body. it can have medical implications, but is also a regulatory response, allowing change in blood supply to different tissues through vasodilation

Specializes in cardiac/critical care/ informatics.

a hemangioma is an abnormal build up of blood vessels in the skin or internal organs.[1] it is also described as a congenital benign skin lesion consisting of dense, usually elevated masses of dilated blood vessels".

Everything you ever wanted to know about Hemangiomas; http://www.medhelp.org/HealthTopics/Hemangioma.html

webmd.com

I see that the term "hyperemia" is used in webmd's section on pinkeye. However, I don't think hyperemia refers only to eye redness, does it?

I see that the term "hyperemia" is used in webmd's section on pinkeye. However, I don't think hyperemia refers only to eye redness, does it?

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=hyperemia&btnG=Google+Search

Try this link.

I see that the term "hyperemia" is used in webmd's section on pinkeye. However, I don't think hyperemia refers only to eye redness, does it?

Not just the eyes. Also doesn't describe redness associated with factors other than increased blood flow.

Here's a link to an article that describes an example of abdominal hyperemia:

http://ajpgi.physiology.org/cgi/content/abstract/255/5/G542

+ Join the Discussion