Petechiae, purpura, and ecchymosis are all terms used to describe different types of bleeding into the skin. These symptoms occur when tiny blood vessels (capillaries) burst or have a small tear and allow red blood cells to leak out into the surrounding tissue. Ecchymosis is the medical term for the common bruise. They are caused when blood vessels near the skin’s surface burst and blood pools. Ecchymosis will change colors and disappear as this blood... What is Ecchymosis ? Definition The blood vessels (capillaries) under the skin are very minute. When they rupture, blood can escape from the vessels to the surrounding tissues. Rupture of the blood vessels can normally happen with or without trauma. Under normal conditions the broken vessels are immediately sealed by platelets which come together and forming a plug. Further it is strengthened by fibrin deposits formed through a series of chemical reactions which is known as Coagulation ... Ecchymosis is the medical term for a type of bruise. Learn more about ecchymosis and when you need to see a doctor.