skrzepu

Skrzepu is the genitive form of skrzep, a Polish term for a coagulated mass formed during the process of hemostasis. In English, the word is commonly translated as blood clot or coagulum. A skrzep can form inside blood vessels (intravascular) or within damaged tissue after bleeding, and it serves to stop bleeding and begin tissue repair.

Formation and composition: A skrzep arises when the coagulation cascade is activated, leading to the generation of thrombin, conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin, and the creation of a fibrin mesh that traps platelets and red and white blood cells. Platelets adhere to exposed tissue, aggregate, and release substances that amplify coagulation. The resulting clot is primarily a fibrin network with embedded cells. The color and texture vary with the relative amounts of red blood cells (red clots are richer in erythrocytes) and platelets (white clots).

Clinical relevance: When a skrzep forms abnormally inside vessels, it can obstruct blood flow and cause serious conditions such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Conversely, insufficient coagulation or excessive clot dissolution can lead to bleeding. The body maintains a balance through coagulation and anticoagulation pathways and through fibrinolysis, which dissolves clots. Disruption of this balance can be influenced by genetics, surgery, immobility, cancer, or medications.

Diagnostics and treatment: Evaluation may involve blood tests (such as D-dimer) and imaging techniques like ultrasound or CT scans. Treatments include anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, thrombolytics, or mechanical clot removal, chosen according to location, size, and risk.

See also: blood coagulation, hemostasis, thrombosis, fibrinolysis.