What is the medical term for blood in the anterior chamber of the eye?

The medical term for blood in the anterior chamber of the eye is hyphema. Hyphema is typically a result of trauma to the eye and can occur when there is bleeding from the blood vessels in the iris or the ciliary body. This condition is significant as it can affect vision and indicates the need for prompt medical evaluation and treatment to prevent complications, such as increased intraocular pressure or scarring of the cornea.

In contrast, ecchymosis refers to a discoloration of the skin resulting from bleeding underneath, often referred to as a bruise. Edema is the swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body’s tissues, and Battle's sign is indicative of a specific type of bruising behind the ear, often associated with a fracture of the skull. None of these terms accurately describe the presence of blood specifically within the anterior chamber of the eye, which is why hyphema is the correct choice.