EMBOLUS Meaning and
Definition
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An embolus is a medical term that refers to a clot or a mass of material that circulates through the bloodstream and eventually lodges in a blood vessel, thereby obstructing the flow of blood. This obstruction can cause severe damage to tissues and organs that depend on a steady blood supply. Emboli are usually formed by clots originating from another part of the body, such as the heart or deep veins in the legs, and they can lead to serious medical conditions like stroke, pulmonary embolism, or heart attack.
The composition of an embolus can vary; it may consist of a blood clot, cholesterol plaque, air bubble, or foreign material like a tumor or bone marrow. The size of an embolus determines its potential impact, as smaller emboli can pass through narrower blood vessels and cause blockages at distant sites. When an embolus becomes lodged, it not only obstructs blood flow but can also trigger an inflammatory response in the affected area.
Diagnosis of an embolus typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and advanced imaging techniques like ultrasound, computed tomography scan, or magnetic resonance imaging. Treatment options for emboli often involve the administration of anticoagulant medications to prevent further clotting and decrease the chances of a recurrent embolus. In some cases, surgical intervention may be required to remove the embolus and restore blood flow to affected tissues.
Overall, an embolus is a potentially dangerous obstruction that results from the movement of a clot or another foreign substance that causes disruption in normal blood circulation, leading to significant health complications.
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1. A plug, composed of a detached clot, mass of bacteria or other foreign body, occluding a blood vessel. 2. Nucleus emboliformis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The movable part of a pump or a syringe, also called the piston or sucker; in mech., a wedge.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for EMBOLUS
Etymology of EMBOLUS
The word "embolus" is derived from the Greek term "émboleus" (ἔμβολος). The root "embol-" comes from the verb "emballō" (ἐμβάλλω) meaning "I throw in" or "I insert". In ancient Greek, the term was used to refer to something that is thrown in or inserted, specifically in the context of intercalating an extra month into the lunar calendar. Over time, the term "embolus" came to be associated with a plug or clot that is lodged in a blood vessel, which led to its usage in medical terminology.
Similar spelling words for EMBOLUS
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