|
|
Blood Clots
Alternate Names : Clot, Emboli, Thrombi
Definition
Blood clots (fibrin clots) are the clumps that result from coagulation of the blood. A blood clot that forms in a vessel or within the heart and remains there is called a thrombus. A thrombus that travels from the vessel or heart chamber where it formed to another location in the body is called an embolus, and the disorder, an embolism (for example, pulmonary embolism).
Sometimes a piece of atherosclerotic plaque small pieces of tumor, fat globules, air, amniotic fluid, or other materials can act in the same manner as an embolus.
For more information, see the following:
Pictures & Images
 See all Pictures & Images
ComplicationsThrombi and emboli can firmly attach to a blood vessel and partially or completely block the flow of blood in that vessel. This blockage deprives the tissues in that location of normal blood flow and oxygen. This is called ischemia and if not treated promptly can result in damage or even death of the tissues (infarction and necrosis) in that area.
Today's Top News Stories | • | Air Travel Taxes Hearts of People With Sleep Apnea - May 18, 2008, 09:00
They experience higher heart rates and more demand for oxygen, study found. | • | Prostate Cancer Vaccine Looks Promising in Early Trial - May 18, 2008, 09:00
Could help men with metastatic, recurring disease, researchers say. | • | Depression, PTSD Common Among Lung Transplant Patient Caregivers - May 18, 2008, 09:00
They're 4 to 5 times more likely to suffer symptoms, but trained counselors could help. | • | Sen. Edward Kennedy Hospitalized After Seizure - May 17, 2008, 16:51
His carotid artery was cleared of a partial blockage last fall. | • | Cheaper Earrings More Likely to Contain Nickel - May 17, 2008, 09:00
But report could not establish safe-limit price as guide for avoiding exposure. |
|
 |
Review Date : 11/5/2002
Reviewed By : Elena Sgarbossa, M.D., Department of Cardiology, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
|
|
