intraluminal thrombus
Blood clot formation within the lumen of an artery that may cause partial or complete vessel occlusion.
Full Definition
Intraluminal thrombus refers to the formation of blood clots within the arterial lumen, which can result from various pathological processes including atherosclerotic plaque rupture, arterial dissection, or stagnant flow conditions. Thrombus appears as a filling defect on contrast-enhanced imaging, representing areas where contrast material cannot penetrate due to clot formation. The age and composition of thrombus affects its imaging characteristics, with acute thrombus typically appearing as a well-defined filling defect and chronic thrombus potentially showing organization and calcification. Detection of intraluminal thrombus is critical for determining appropriate anticoagulation therapy and assessing embolic risk.
Usage
Usage note: Describe age (acute vs. chronic) and extent when clinically relevant.
In Context
- "CT angiography revealed intraluminal thrombus within the abdominal aortic aneurysm." — Emergency radiology report
- "The filling defect was consistent with acute intraluminal thrombus." — Stroke imaging interpretation