Two researchers obtained repeated tristimulus colourimetry measures of cutaneous bruises with participants of diverse skin colour. Measures were obtained using the Minolta CR-400 Chomameter. Commission Internationale d’Eclairage (CIE) L*a*b* colour space was used. Data was analysed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), Cronbach's alpha, and minimal detectable change (MDC) on all three L*a*b* values.
The colorimeter demonstrated excellent test–retest or intra-rater reliability (L* ICC = 0.999; a* ICC = 0.973; b* ICC = 0.892) and inter-rater reliability (L* ICC = 0.997; a* ICC = 0.976; b* ICC = 0.982).
With consistent placement, the tristimulus colourimetry is reliable for the objective assessment and documentation of cutaneous bruise colour for purposes of clinical practice and research. Recommendations for use in practice/research are provided.