Embolus

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Embolus

Embolus (/ɛmˈboʊləs/; plural: emboli) is a medical term referring to a blockage in the bloodstream caused by a blood clot or other foreign substance.

Etymology

The term "embolus" originates from the Greek word "embolos," which means "stopper" or "plug." It was first used in the medical context in the mid-19th century.

Definition

An embolus is a detached, intravascular mass that travels through the blood vessels from its point of origin to a different location in the body, where it can cause a blockage. This blockage can lead to tissue damage or death due to lack of oxygen and nutrients.

Types of Emboli

There are several types of emboli, including:

  • Thromboembolism: This is the most common type of embolus and is caused by a blood clot.
  • Fat embolism: This occurs when fat particles enter the bloodstream, often after a bone fracture or major trauma.
  • Air embolism: This happens when one or more air bubbles enter a vein or artery and block it.
  • Septic embolism: This is caused by an infection in the bloodstream, where bacteria form clumps with platelets and fibrin.

Related Terms

  • Embolism: This is the process by which an embolus forms and causes a blockage in the bloodstream.
  • Thrombus: This is a blood clot that forms in a blood vessel and remains there.
  • Ischemia: This is a condition that occurs when blood flow to a part of the body is reduced, often due to an embolus, causing a shortage of oxygen that can damage tissues and organs.

See Also

External links

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