embolismrelated

Embolism-related disorders describe events in which emboli travel through the circulatory system and occlude vessels, causing tissue ischemia or organ dysfunction. An embolus may be a thrombus, air bubble, fat globule, septic particle, tumor fragment, or other intravascular material. The clinical impact depends on the embolus type, size, and the vessel involved; the lungs, brain, and limbs are common sites, but any organ may be affected.

Thromboembolism is the most common form, typically arising from venous thrombi in deep veins and traveling to the lungs (pulmonary embolism) or to arterial circulation in certain conditions such as atrial fibrillation. Air embolism can occur after medical procedures or trauma and can cause sudden cardiovascular or neurologic symptoms. Fat embolism often follows long bone fractures or orthopedic procedures. Septic embolism results from infection spreading via the bloodstream, and tumor embolism consists of malignant cells dislodged from a primary tumor.

Diagnosis relies on clinical presentation and imaging. Pulmonary embolism is evaluated with CT pulmonary angiography; D-dimer testing supports suspicion but is not specific. Deep vein thrombosis is assessed with ultrasound; brain embolism uses MRI or CT. Treatment depends on the embolus type and severity and may include anticoagulation, thrombolysis, endovascular thrombectomy, or surgical embolectomy for large occlusions; oxygen therapy for respiratory compromise; antibiotics for septic emboli; and management of the underlying source.

Prevention focuses on reducing thromboembolic risk through mobilization, mechanical prophylaxis, and pharmacologic anticoagulation in high-risk patients; avoidance of procedures when possible; and treatment of risk factors such as atrial fibrillation, cancer, or hypercoagulability. Embolism-related conditions require rapid assessment to minimize organ damage and improve outcomes.