HEMORRHAGE
Subconjuntival hemorrhage, showing significant blood accumulation.
Courtesy of Jordan M. Graff of the University of Iowa (USA).
A hemorrhage a profuse discharge of blood from a ruptured blood vessel. The blood loss can be internal, in which the dischage occurs inside the body, or external through a cut or through any of the body's orifaces.
The American College of Surgeons (USA) has subdivided hemorrhages into the following four classes.
- Class 1 Hemorrhage represents a loss of 15% of blood volume or less. This usually does not cause a major change in vital signs.
- Class 2 Hemorrhage signifies a loss of 15-30% of blood volume. This typically is accompanied by tachycardia, a change in blood pressure, and cool and clammy skin. It usually requires intravenous fluid replacement.
- Class 3 Hemorrhage represents a loss of 30-40% of blood volume. Quick intervention with intravenous fluid replacement and blood transfusion is recommended in this case.
- Class 4 Hemorrhage signifies a loss of greater than 40% of blood volume. This is a life-threatening event that requires rapid intervention.
Additional Information about Hemorrhage
Cerebral Cavernous Malformation and Hemorrhage from the Angioma Alliance
Brain Hemorrhage from Cedars-Sinai Hospital (USA)
Postpartum Hemorrhage from Children's Hospital of Wisconsin (USA)
Related Topics
Hypovolemic Shock
Hematemesis
Hemoptysis
Hematochezia
Hematuria
Hematoma
Aneurysm
Hemophillia
Coagulation
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