Embolus & Embolism

Embolus & Embolism

TL;DR Embolus or embolism is a moving blood clot or foreign object that travels through the bloodstream. When it lodges in a blood vessel, it can block blood flow and cause serious complications. Origin ▾: Often originates from a blood clot (thrombus) in a vein, but...
Tissue Plasminogen Activator (tPA)

Tissue Plasminogen Activator (tPA)

TL;DR What is tissue plasminogen activator (tPA)? ▾ Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is a drug used to dissolve blood clots.   How does it work? ▾ Works by activating plasminogen, which breaks down fibrin in clots.   Medical uses ▾ Primarily used...
Thalassemia

Thalassemia

TL;DR Thalassemia is a group of inherited blood disorders characterized by the reduced or absent production of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Pathogenesis ▾ Caused by genetic mutations affecting globin chain production (alpha or beta)....
Neutrophils

Neutrophils

TL;DR Neutrophils are the most common type of white blood cell, serving as the body’s primary defense against bacterial and fungal infections. Function ▾: Neutrophils primarily function by engulfing and destroying invading microorganisms through a process called...