Thrombus Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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thrombus

[หˆฮธrษ’mbษ™s ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical term

A blood clot formed in a blood vessel or within the heart.

Synonyms

blood clot, embolus.

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Word Description / Examples
thrombus

Medical term used to specifically describe a clot that stays in the place where it formed.

  • The surgeon removed a large thrombus from the patientโ€™s artery
blood clot

General term used by laypeople and healthcare professionals alike to describe a mass of coagulated blood that can form in either arteries or veins.

  • He was rushed to the hospital because they suspected he had a blood clot in his lung
embolus

Medical term for a blood clot that has traveled from its original location to another part of the body, often causing a blockage.

  • An embolus can cause a stroke if it travels to the brain

Examples of usage

  • The patient was diagnosed with a thrombus in his leg.
  • The thrombus caused a blockage in the artery.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Medical Significance

  • A thrombus can lead to serious health issues such as heart attacks or strokes if it blocks blood flow.
  • Blood thinners are often prescribed to prevent thrombus formation in at-risk patients.
  • The body can sometimes dissolve a thrombus naturally, but medical intervention is often required.

Pop Culture

  • In medical dramas, characters often face life-threatening situations related to clots, raising awareness about thrombus-related conditions.
  • Documentaries and educational content increasingly focus on vascular health and the dangers of thrombus formation.

Science

  • Research is ongoing into how to better prevent and treat thrombus formation, including the study of genetic factors.
  • Understanding how thrombus affects blood flow has led to significant advances in cardiovascular medicine.

Psychology

  • Awareness and understanding of thrombus can reduce anxiety in patients undergoing surgery, knowing they can be monitored for clots.
  • Educational programs emphasize the importance of lifestyle choices to mitigate risks associated with thrombus, like diet and exercise.

Origin of 'thrombus'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Greek word 'thrombos', meaning 'clot'.
  • It was first used in the 19th century as medical knowledge about blood clots advanced.
  • Related words in medicine include thrombosis (the process of clot formation) and thrombolysis (the breaking down of clots).

The word 'thrombus' originated from the Greek word 'thrombos' meaning 'lump' or 'clot'. The concept of blood clots has been recognized for centuries, with early observations of thrombi in blood vessels dating back to ancient times. The understanding of thrombus formation and its role in various medical conditions has evolved over time, leading to advancements in diagnosis and treatment.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,241, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.