What best describes a hematoma?

A hematoma is best described as a solid swelling of clotted blood that occurs when blood vessels are damaged and blood leaks into surrounding tissues. This accumulation of blood can create a palpable mass, which may vary in size depending on the extent of the bleeding and the location within the body. Unlike a bruise, which refers specifically to skin discoloration due to minor bleeding under the skin, a hematoma is a more significant collection of blood that can occur in deeper tissues, muscles, or organs.

The other descriptions do not accurately capture the nature of a hematoma. For instance, a collection of fluid in a body cavity pertains more to seromas or effusions rather than hematomas, which specifically involve clotted blood. A bruise, while related to blood leakage, does not imply the organized collection of blood seen in a hematoma, and an area of raised scar tissue is indicative of fibrosis rather than a hematoma. Therefore, the best way to define a hematoma is as a solid swelling resulting from the accumulation of clotted blood.