Embolism

Embolism describes intravascular material that is carried from its original location downstream to a distant area. The most common type of embolism is that which is derived from a thrombus, such as in the case of pulmonary embolism or stroke.

Types of embolism

• thromboembolism
• gas embolism
• amniotic fluid embolism
• tumor embolism
• septic embolism
• foreign body embolism
  • mercury embolism

Clinical features

The end result of embolism depends on the type, size and region the embolus travels to. Some examples include

• lungs (pulmonary embolus) - dyspnea, tachypnea, tachycardia
• brain - stroke
• peripheral arteries - acutely ischemic limb or digit