Which term describes a moving clump of platelets?

Study for the Cardiovascular Disorders Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions with explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which term describes a moving clump of platelets?

Explanation:
The moving clump of platelets is best described as an embolus. An embolus is a piece of clot or other material that travels through the bloodstream and can lodge in a distant vessel, causing blockage. A thrombus, by contrast, forms at a site within a vessel and tends to stay in place. Angina is chest pain from reduced blood flow to the heart, and orthopnea is shortness of breath when lying flat due to heart failure—neither involves a traveling clot. So the traveling nature of the mass makes embolus the correct term.

The moving clump of platelets is best described as an embolus. An embolus is a piece of clot or other material that travels through the bloodstream and can lodge in a distant vessel, causing blockage. A thrombus, by contrast, forms at a site within a vessel and tends to stay in place. Angina is chest pain from reduced blood flow to the heart, and orthopnea is shortness of breath when lying flat due to heart failure—neither involves a traveling clot. So the traveling nature of the mass makes embolus the correct term.

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