thromboemboliás

Thromboemboliás is a term used to describe thromboembolism, the process by which a blood clot (thrombus) formed in one location breaks away and travels through the bloodstream to lodge in another vessel, causing obstruction. The condition can involve venous thromboembolism, most commonly deep vein thrombosis of the legs and pulmonary embolism, or arterial thromboembolism, which can cause organ or limb ischemia and stroke.

Pathophysiology and scope are governed by Virchow's triad: venous stasis, endothelial injury, and hypercoagulability. Thrombi may propagate at their origin or embolize to distant sites, with the lungs often receiving venous emboli. The clinical impact depends on the location and size of the obstruction.

Risk factors include recent surgery or immobilization, cancer, obesity, pregnancy, hormone therapy, inherited thrombophilias, and inflammatory or autoimmune diseases. The combination of risk factors and triggers determines the likelihood of a thromboembolic event.

Diagnosis relies on clinical suspicion supported by testing. D-dimer can be helpful but is non-specific. Imaging is central: compression ultrasonography for suspected deep vein thrombosis; CT pulmonary angiography for suspected pulmonary embolism; and arterial or cerebral imaging for suspected arterial embolism.

Treatment strategies focus on reducing thrombus formation and preventing recurrence. Anticoagulation with heparin and/or direct oral anticoagulants is common; thrombolysis or surgical thrombectomy may be considered in selected cases. Preventive measures, including risk factor modification and, in high-risk patients, mechanical or pharmacologic prophylaxis, are important. Prognosis varies by location and extent, with recurrence possible and, in some cases, chronic thromboembolic conditions.