What differentiates a thrombus from an embolus?

The distinction between a thrombus and an embolus is primarily based on their mobility and location in the vascular system. A thrombus refers to a blood clot that forms in a blood vessel and remains attached to its site of formation. This clot can form due to a variety of factors, such as injury to the blood vessel wall, stasis of blood flow, or hypercoagulability of blood components. Since it does not move from its original position, it is considered stationary.

On the other hand, an embolus is a particle—such as a blood clot, air bubble, fat droplet, or other debris—that has detached from its original site and travels through the bloodstream. As emboli can travel to different parts of the body, they can lead to blockages in vessels, potentially resulting in serious conditions like strokes or pulmonary embolisms.

The other options do not accurately describe the differences between the two. A thrombus and an embolus can both potentially dissolve under certain circumstances, and thrombosis can occur in both arteries and veins. Not all thrombi are inherently harmful, as some may be a normal response to injury, while emboli are often associated with harmful consequences due to their ability to obstruct blood flow. Understanding the characteristics of throm