title: Drifting hematomas.
abstract: When blood is released into the tissues of the lower extremities, it may drift downward under the influence of the force of gravity to produce the influence of the force of gravity to produce pain, edema, redness and heat. A crescent shaped ecchymosis may appear around the malleoli. The relationship between cause and effect may be obscured by a time interval of up to four weeks before conclusive signs are seen. Early differentiation of this condition from that of phlebitis and deep venous thrombosis is necessary. Such differentiation prevents inappropriate and potentially dangerous anticoagulation as well as the disastrous consequences of untreated edema of the legs. With prompt, appropriate treatment, complete recovery can be expected. If treatment is delayed, permanent damage to the leg can result.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004487:Edema / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006112:Gravitation; D006406:Hematoma / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010689:Phlebitis / Q000175:diagnosis