Which term refers to a clot that travels through the bloodstream?

Prepare for the SkillsUSA Medical Terminology Test. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions that include hints and explanations to boost your confidence for exam success!

Multiple Choice

Which term refers to a clot that travels through the bloodstream?

Explanation:
A traveling clot is called an embolus. It is a detached mass that moves through the bloodstream and can lodge in a vessel downstream, potentially causing a blockage known as an embolism. This distinguishes the traveling piece (embolus) from the event it can cause (embolism). For contrast, a thrombus is a clot that remains attached to a vessel wall, while erythema is skin redness and ascites is fluid buildup in the abdomen.

A traveling clot is called an embolus. It is a detached mass that moves through the bloodstream and can lodge in a vessel downstream, potentially causing a blockage known as an embolism. This distinguishes the traveling piece (embolus) from the event it can cause (embolism). For contrast, a thrombus is a clot that remains attached to a vessel wall, while erythema is skin redness and ascites is fluid buildup in the abdomen.

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