What is an embolism?

An embolism refers to the obstruction of a blood vessel caused by a foreign particle or thrombus that has traveled through the bloodstream. This blockage can impede blood flow to various parts of the body, leading to serious complications depending on the location and extent of the obstruction. For instance, a pulmonary embolism occurs when a clot lodges in the lungs, while a cerebral embolism may affect blood flow to the brain, potentially resulting in a stroke.

The condition is characterized by the presence of an embolus, which can be made up of elements such as blood clots, air bubbles, fat droplets, or other substances. Understanding the nature of an embolism is crucial in vascular technology, as the implications can be significant for patient health and treatment strategies.

In contrast, blood vessel dilation refers to the expansion of a blood vessel, and the narrowness of a blood vessel indicates a condition known as stenosis, which also does not define an embolism. Additionally, benign tumors do not relate to the obstructive processes involved in an embolism; rather, they are typically localized overgrowths of mature cells. This knowledge is important for recognizing the pathophysiological processes involved in vascular health.