Which type of head injury is characterized by a bruise of the brain?

A bruise of the brain is specifically referred to as a contusion. This type of head injury occurs when the brain is subjected to a force that causes bleeding and swelling in the brain tissue, leading to damage in the localized area. Contusions are often the result of a direct impact to the head, which can occur in falls, car accidents, or sports injuries.

In addition to the bruising itself, contusions can lead to various symptoms depending on the severity and location of the injury, including headaches, confusion, and loss of consciousness. The presence of a contusion can often be visualized through imaging techniques such as CT scans or MRIs, which will show the affected area of the brain.

In contrast, a concussion primarily involves a functional disturbance rather than structural damage, leading to a temporary loss of normal brain function without bruising. Lacerations are actual cuts or tears in the brain tissue and are more severe injuries requiring surgical intervention. A fracture refers to a break in the skull bone and does not necessarily imply damage to the brain tissue itself. These distinctions highlight why contusion is the correct identification for a brain bruise.