What is the medical term for a brain bruise?

The medical term for a brain bruise is cerebral contusion. A cerebral contusion refers to a localized hemorrhage or bleeding in the brain tissue resulting from trauma, which can lead to symptoms such as confusion, headache, or even loss of consciousness depending on the severity.

Cerebral contusions typically occur when the brain is bruised due to a direct impact, such as in a fall or a vehicle accident. This trauma causes blood vessels to rupture, leading to swelling and inflammation in the affected area. Understanding this term is essential for first responders, as it helps them recognize the signs and symptoms of head injuries and make informed decisions about the necessity for advanced medical care.

Other terms listed do refer to conditions related to head trauma but do not specifically denote a brain bruise. Subdural hematoma describes a collection of blood beneath the outer protective layer of the brain, created often due to tear of blood vessels. Intracerebral hemorrhage involves bleeding within the brain itself, not necessarily resulting from a bruise. Neurotrauma is a broad term that encompasses various injuries to the nervous system, but it does not specifically refer to a brain bruise. Understanding these distinctions is fundamental in handling trauma-related emergencies appropriately.