What is the Difference Between Thrombus and Embolus?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between a thrombus and an embolus lies in their formation and movement within the blood vessels:
- Thrombus: A thrombus is a blood clot that forms in a vein. It occurs when a blood clot, or thrombus, develops in a blood vessel and reduces the flow of blood through the vessel. Venous thrombosis is when the blood clot blocks a vein, which carries blood from the body back into the heart.
- Embolus: An embolus is anything that moves through the blood vessels until it reaches a vessel that is too small to let it pass. It occurs when a piece of a blood clot, foreign object, or other bodily substance obstructs blood flow. An embolus can be a small piece of a blood clot that breaks off (thromboembolus) or other substances such as fat, air, amniotic fluid, a tumor, or a foreign substance like talc, iodine, cotton, or a tiny piece of catheter tube.
Both thrombosis and embolism can block blood flow and increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke. However, a thrombus is a stationary blood clot that forms in a blood vessel, while an embolus is a particle or mass that flows through the bloodstream and can cause a blockage elsewhere.
Comparative Table: Thrombus vs Embolus
The main difference between a thrombus and an embolus is their formation and location within the blood vessels. Here is a table comparing the two:
Feature | Thrombus | Embolus |
---|---|---|
Definition | A blood clot that forms in a blood vessel, reducing blood flow | A foreign material or piece of a blood clot that travels through blood vessels, potentially causing a blockage |
Location | Develops in a blood vessel, such as in the legs, pelvis, arms, or heart | Forms when a blood clot, fat, air bubble, or other substance travels through blood vessels and can lodge elsewhere |
Formation | Caused by hypercoagulability, resulting in a blood clot | Unattached and capable of traveling along blood vessels, can be of different origins, including blood clots, plaque due to cholesterol, cholesterol crystals, fat globules, and gas bubbles |
Both thrombosis and embolism are serious conditions that can block blood flow and increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke. It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you suspect either of these conditions.
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