Arterial gas embolism

Arterial Gas Embolism

Arterial gas embolism (pronounced: ar-TEER-ee-al gas em-BOWL-izm), also known as AGE, is a pathological condition characterized by the presence of gas bubbles in the arterial system.

Etymology

The term "arterial gas embolism" is derived from the Greek words "arteria" meaning air, "gas" meaning spirit, and "embolos" meaning plug or stopper.

Definition

An Arterial gas embolism occurs when one or more gas bubbles enter into the arterial circulation. This can block the flow of blood to certain areas of the body, leading to tissue damage and possibly death.

Causes

The most common cause of an arterial gas embolism is decompression sickness, also known as "the bends". This can occur in divers who ascend too quickly from deep water. Other causes can include lung trauma, certain medical procedures, and the use of pressurized gas.

Symptoms

Symptoms of an arterial gas embolism can include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and loss of consciousness. In severe cases, it can lead to stroke, heart attack, or death.

Treatment

Treatment for an arterial gas embolism typically involves recompression therapy, which involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized room or tube. This helps to reduce the size of the gas bubbles and improve blood flow. Other treatments can include medications to control symptoms and surgery to remove the gas bubbles.

Related Terms

• Decompression sickness
• Arterial system
• Stroke
• Heart attack

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Arterial gas embolism
• Wikipedia's article - Arterial gas embolism

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