Thrombi Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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thrombi

[ˈθrɒm.baɪ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Thrombi are abnormal clots of blood that form within a blood vessel and can occlude blood flow. They can cause serious medical conditions such as heart attacks or strokes when they block arteries supplying blood to critical areas of the body. Thrombi can be formed from the aggregation of platelets and fibrin and may develop in veins or arteries depending on various factors including blood flow and vessel injury.

Synonyms

clots, coagulations, occlusions.

Examples of usage

  • The patient was diagnosed with deep vein thrombi.
  • Thrombi can travel through the bloodstream and cause embolisms.
  • Doctors monitor patients for the formation of thrombi after surgery.

Translations

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Origin of 'thrombi'

The term 'thrombus' comes from the Greek word 'thrombos,' which means 'lump' or 'clot.' It was first used in the early 19th century to describe the pathological condition of clot formation within blood vessels. The study of thrombi became a significant area of research in cardiovascular medicine, particularly as the understanding of blood coagulation and its mechanisms improved. Thrombus formation is associated with various medical conditions, including cardiovascular diseases and coagulopathies. Understanding the pathophysiology of thrombi has led to advances in treatments, such as anticoagulants and thrombolytics, aimed at preventing or dissolving these clots. Over time, the concept of thrombus has expanded to include the various types of clots that can form in different vascular contexts.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,442, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.