Thrombotic

Thrombotic is an adjective describing processes or conditions related to thrombosis, the formation of a blood clot within a blood vessel. Thrombosis can occur in arteries or veins, leading to obstructed blood flow. When clots form or propagate, they may cause tissue ischemia or embolic events elsewhere in the body.

The risk of thrombosis is shaped by Virchow's triad: endothelial injury, abnormal blood flow (stasis or turbulence), and hypercoagulability. Conditions such as surgery, trauma, cancer, pregnancy, certain genetic factors, and inflammatory states increase coagulation. Anticoagulant pathways balance clot formation to prevent excessive bleeding.

Arterial thrombosis often underlies myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke; venous thrombosis includes deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Symptoms depend on location: DVT causes leg swelling and pain; PE causes chest pain, dyspnea; arterial events cause sudden pain or neurological symptoms.

Diagnosis relies on imaging and blood tests (ultrasound for DVT, CT angiography, D-dimer). Treatment includes anticoagulation, thrombolysis in selected cases, and mechanical thrombectomy for large clots. Preventive measures include risk factor modification, extended prophylaxis after surgery, and, in genetic risk, surveillance. The prognosis varies with clot location, extent, and promptness of therapy.