Damage to small blood vessels beneath the skin after blunt trauma most commonly presents as which of the following?

• A. Mottling
• B. Ecchymosis
• C. Hematoma
• D. Cyanosis

Answer: (B)

When small vessels under the skin rupture after blunt trauma, the typical finding is ecchymosis, or a bruise. Blood leaks from the damaged capillaries into surrounding tissues, producing the characteristic discoloration that begins red or purple and gradually changes as the blood is broken down. This is the most common presentation of superficial bleeding beneath the skin.

Mottling reflects poor perfusion and is more about overall blood flow status than a localized bruise. Cyanosis is a blue tint from low oxygenation of the blood, usually systemic rather than a localized skin bleed. A hematoma is a localized collection of blood that may form a lump or swelling, which can occur but ecchymosis is the more typical superficial sign after minor vessel injury.