Blood clot

Definition

A blood clot is a gel-like mass formed by platelets and fibrin in the blood to stop bleeding. While essential for wound healing, clots can cause serious problems if they form inappropriately within blood vessels.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Blood clots can obstruct blood flow and lead to conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE).
2. Septicemia, a bacterial infection in the bloodstream, can increase the risk of abnormal clot formation.
3. Endocarditis, an infection of the heart valves, often involves bacterial colonies that encourage clot formation on valve surfaces.
4. Clotting is part of the body's natural defense mechanism but becomes problematic when bacteria release toxins that activate excessive coagulation.
5. Anticoagulant medications are often used to treat or prevent harmful clots during bacterial infections.

Review Questions

• What role do platelets and fibrin play in blood clot formation?
• How can septicemia influence the risk of abnormal blood clot formation?
• What complications can arise from blood clots forming on heart valves?

Related terms

Septicemia:

A severe bloodstream infection caused by bacteria.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, typically in the legs.

Endocarditis:

An infection of the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves.