What term describes the process of bruising?

The term that accurately describes the process of bruising is ecchymosis. Ecchymosis refers specifically to the discoloration of the skin resulting from bleeding underneath, resulting in the characteristic blue or purple marks that appear once blood vessels are damaged.

While contusion is also related to bruising and could be considered a synonym, it generally describes the broader category of soft tissue injury that includes swelling and pain in addition to discoloration. Hematoma refers to a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels, which can occur in association with bruising but is more of a specific entity rather than the process itself. Laceration pertains to a tear or cut in the skin and does not relate to bruising in terms of the underlying mechanism.

Understanding these terms helps clarify the differences in soft tissue injury terminology within a clinical context.