What is a common sign of trauma that can occur before death?

A hematoma is indeed a common sign of trauma that can occur before death. A hematoma refers to a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels, usually resulting from a break in the wall of a blood vessel due to injury. This can occur as a result of physical trauma, which can happen in various situations, including accidents, falls, or assaults. The presence of hematomas can provide important information about the nature and extent of the trauma experienced by an individual prior to death.

Cyanosis, while it indicates a lack of oxygen in the blood and can be a sign of respiratory or cardiac issues, is not specifically indicative of trauma. Anasarca refers to widespread edema and is often a sign of underlying disease processes rather than a direct result of trauma. Jaundice, characterized by a yellowing of the skin and eyes due to elevated bilirubin levels, is associated with liver dysfunction and is not a sign of trauma. Thus, while all the terms describe medical conditions, a hematoma is uniquely related to trauma occurring before death.