What does the presence of "Raccoon eyes" indicate?

The presence of "raccoon eyes," also known as periorbital ecchymosis, is indicative of a skull fracture, particularly a fracture of the base of the skull. This characteristic bruising around the eyes occurs due to bleeding from the fracture site, which can lead to blood pooling in the soft tissue surrounding the eyes. It is an important sign to recognize in a patient, as it suggests potential serious underlying injuries, including damage to the dura mater or vascular structures within the skull.

Understanding "raccoon eyes" is crucial because it helps healthcare providers assess the mechanism of injury and the severity of the head trauma the patient may have sustained. It can serve as a key clinical indicator, ensuring that appropriate further imaging, such as a CT scan, is pursued to evaluate for associated intracranial injuries.