Large, flat areas of skin discoloration caused by bleeding underneath the skin, commonly known as bruises. Larger than petechiae and typically result from trauma or bleeding disorders.
From Greek 'ekchymosis' meaning 'extravasation of blood,' from 'ek' (out) + 'chymos' (juice, fluid). The term literally means 'fluid flowing out' and was used by ancient Greek physicians to describe bleeding under the skin. The plural form reflects the fact that these lesions often appear in multiples.
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