What is the term for the injury where the epidermis is intact, but the dermis may be damaged?

The injury where the epidermis remains intact while the dermis may be damaged is correctly identified as a contusion. A contusion, often referred to as a bruise, occurs when blood vessels under the skin are damaged due to trauma, resulting in bleeding into the surrounding tissue. The epidermis, which is the outermost layer of skin, does not break, meaning the skin appears unbroken but there may be underlying damage to the dermis.

Understanding this distinction is crucial in trauma assessment, as it helps to evaluate the severity of the injury and necessary interventions. In contrast, terms like evisceration pertain to a condition where internal organs are protruding through an open wound, hematoma refers specifically to a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels, and avulsion involves a portion of skin being torn away from the body. Each of these terms describes different types of injuries with distinct characteristics and implications for treatment.