Embolus

Definition

An embolus is a blood clot, air bubble, piece of fatty deposit, or other object that has been carried in the bloodstream to lodge in a vessel and cause an embolism. It can obstruct blood flow in the circulatory system, leading to potential damage or dysfunction in tissues and organs.

Related terms

Thrombus: A thrombus is a blood clot that forms within a blood vessel and remains there, which can lead to vascular blockage.

Hemostasis: Hemostasis is the process by which bleeding is stopped via blood clot formation at the site of vessel injury.

Ischemia: Ischemia occurs when there is an insufficient supply of blood to an organ or tissue, often due to obstruction like an embolus