Battles sign

The term Battle's Sign indicates the condition of fracture at the base of the posterior portion of the skull. The sign, which takes its name after William Henry Battle is suggestive of brain trauma. The sign indicates bruising immediately behind the person's ears. A bloody drainage occurs from the ear immediately after the fracture has occurred.

In case of brain fracture or bruises, along with bleeding in the ear, other complications, such as bleeding from nose and eyes, facial swelling, bleeding or bruising, unconsciousness, convulsions, multiple injuries and distress may occur. Battle's sign is indicative external sign of a trauma or fracture of the skull inside. Such skull fractures are common in children. They occur due to the following causes:

• Head trauma
  
• Falls
  
• Automobile accidents
  
• Physical assault
  
• Sports