Septic embolism

Septic Embolism

Septic embolism (pronunciation: sep-tik em-bo-lizm) is a serious medical condition that occurs when a blood clot or other blockage, infected with bacteria, travels through the bloodstream and blocks a blood vessel in the lungs, brain, or other part of the body.

Etymology

The term "septic" comes from the Greek word "septikos," which means "putrefactive," and "embolism" comes from the Greek word "embolos," meaning "stopper" or "plug."

Definition

A septic embolism is a type of embolism that is infected with bacteria or other microorganisms. This can occur when an infection in one part of the body spreads through the bloodstream. The embolism can cause a blockage in a blood vessel, which can lead to serious complications such as stroke, pulmonary embolism, or infarction.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a septic embolism can vary depending on the location of the blockage. They may include fever, chills, rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, and pain or swelling in the affected area.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a septic embolism typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as blood cultures, imaging studies like CT scan or MRI, and sometimes, a biopsy of the affected tissue.

Treatment

Treatment for septic embolism usually involves antibiotics to treat the infection, and sometimes, surgery to remove the blockage. In some cases, anticoagulant medications may be used to prevent further clotting.

Related Terms

• Embolism
• Septicemia
• Endocarditis
• Thrombosis
• Pulmonary embolism
• Infarction

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Septic embolism
• Wikipedia's article - Septic embolism

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