a condition in which an individual bruises easily (purpura simplex) and the black and blue patches (ecchymoses) tend to enlarge and result in pain in the affected tissue. It is thought to be triggered by severe emotional distress. Also called autoerythrocyte sensitization syndrome; painful bruising syndrome; psychogenic purpura. [Louis Klein Diamond (1902–1995) and Frank H. Gardner (1919–2013), U.S. physicians]