Arterial embolism

Alternative names:

blood clot in an artery

Definition:

A sudden interruption of blood flow to an organ or body part. The interruption is caused when the artery is blocked by an object (blood clot or atherosclerotic plaque) that has moved in the blood stream from its point of origin to a new location.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

An embolism is a clot (or a piece of plaque that acts in the same manner as a clot) that travels from the site where it formed to another location in the body. The embolism can lodge in an artery at the new location and block the flow of blood in that location. The blockage deprives the tissues in that location of its normal blood flow and oxygen (ischemia). This can result in damage or destruction, even death of the tissues (necrosis), in that organ.

Arterial emboli may be caused by a single embolus or multiple emboli. Risks include atrial fibrillation, because the blood flow through the atria can be slow enough to trigger clots to form, which can then travel (embolize). Factors that indicate an increased tendency to form clots may also be associated with increased risk. These may include injury or damage to an artery wall, hematologic (blood component) conditions associated with increased clotting (such as increased platelet count) and other disorders.

Arterial emboli may involve the extremities, especially the legs and feet. Some may involve the brain or heart, causing stroke or heart attack. Less common sites include the kidneys, gut (intestines), and other areas.