Definition of BruiseBruise: Injury of the soft tissues that results in breakage of the local capillaries and leakage of red blood cells. In the skin it can be seen as a reddish-purple discoloration that does not blanch when pressed. When a bruise fades, it becomes green and brown, as the body metabolizes the blood cells in the skin. It is best treated with local application of a cold pack immediately after injury. Also known as contusion. Last Editorial Review: 3/19/2012 Back to MedTerms online medical dictionary A-Z List 
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