Etymed
hemarthrosis
Definition
abnormal condition characterized by bleeding into a joint cavity
Clinical context
A 16-year-old boy presents to the emergency department after falling during soccer practice. He complains of severe knee pain and inability to bear weight. On examination, his knee is significantly swollen and warm to touch. The patient has a history of hemophilia A. Arthrocentesis reveals bright red blood in the joint space.
Mnemonic
HEMARTROSISt - Hemophilia causes blood in the joint, not just hemorrhage