Trombosen

Thromboses, or thrombosis, describe the formation of a blood clot within a blood vessel, which can restrict or block blood flow. Clots may form in veins or arteries. A thrombus can become an embolus if it breaks off and travels to another part of the circulatory system, potentially causing organ damage.

Common risk factors are summarized by Virchow's triad: abnormalities of blood coagulation, changes in blood flow (stasis or turbulence), and injury to the vessel lining. Risk factors include prolonged immobility, major surgery, cancer, pregnancy, hormonal therapies, obesity, smoking, and hereditary clotting disorders.

The most frequent forms are venous thrombosis, especially deep vein thrombosis in the legs, and arterial thrombosis, which can cause heart attack or stroke. A pulmonary embolism occurs when a venous thrombus travels to the lungs. Other sites include cerebral venous sinuses and abdominal vessels.

Diagnosis relies on clinical assessment supported by tests such as D-dimer and imaging (ultrasound for DVT, CT angiography for pulmonary embolism). Treatment typically involves anticoagulant medications and, in severe cases, thrombolysis or mechanical thrombectomy. Prevention focuses on risk-factor modification, early mobilization, and, in high-risk patients, prophylactic anticoagulation.