Ecchymosis can be caused by a traumatic incident, such as being hit with an object or falling on a hard surface. Certain medical conditions, such as cancer or blood clotting disorders, may cause ecchymosis. If the body lacks vitamin K or vitamin C, an individual is at risk of experiencing ecchymosis. If someone is diagnosed with an infection or is taking certain medications, such as Coumadin (warfarin) or aspirin, they are also at an increased risk for experiencing ecchymosis.
Children are most likely to experience ecchymosis during the summer, when living in a temperate climate, or during team sports season.