microtrombos

Microthrombos refers to the formation of very small blood clots, or thrombi, within the tiny blood vessels known as capillaries and arterioles. These microscopic clots can obstruct blood flow, leading to reduced oxygen supply to tissues and potentially causing damage. The precise mechanisms underlying microthrombus formation are complex and can involve several factors.

One contributing factor is the activation of the coagulation cascade, the natural process by which blood clots form. Abnormalities in this cascade, whether inherited or acquired, can lead to excessive clot formation. Endothelial dysfunction, which is damage or impairment of the inner lining of blood vessels, also plays a significant role. When the endothelium is compromised, it can become more prone to triggering platelet aggregation and fibrin deposition, the key components of a blood clot.

Certain medical conditions are associated with an increased risk of microthrombus formation. These include sepsis, a life-threatening response to infection, where widespread inflammation can activate clotting pathways. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a serious disorder characterized by simultaneous clotting and bleeding. Other conditions like thrombotic microangiopathies, such as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), are specifically defined by the presence of microthrombi in small blood vessels. The clinical manifestations of microthrombi depend on their location and extent, and can range from localized tissue ischemia to widespread organ damage.