Child Has Dark Bruise On Lower Back. What Should Be Done To Remove This?

Posted on Sun, 17 Feb 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 17 Feb 2013 Answered on

Sat, 9 Mar 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : My 4 1/2 year old son has a bruise on his lower back, near the tail bone, that has been there for over six weeks. It is a darker brown ring with lighter brown in the middle. I am concerned that it hasn't gone away. It orignially started as a carpet burn from sliding down the stairs.

Answered by Dr. Uma Rajah Ananth (15 minutes later)

Hi,
Welcome to HCM!

I agree with you that by now ( in 6 weeks ) it should have started to heal completely.

If at all what can prevent healing is infection.
There are some signs of infection like
Swelling or induration under the area - it feels hard and red
Any discharge of fluid from that area.
Extension of the original bruise.
Fever unexplained.
Tenderness--- pain when you press the affected area
If none of the above are present,there is no likelihood of infection.

Then you can wait some more time and watch.
May be the inner lighter ring which you mentioned is the fading wound!

Take care
God bless
Dr Uma

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar