intraluminal thrombus
Blood clot formation within the vessel lumen, appearing as filling defects on contrast-enhanced imaging studies.
Full Definition
Intraluminal thrombus represents organized blood clots residing within the vessel lumen, distinct from mural thrombus which forms against the vessel wall. On contrast-enhanced studies, acute thrombus appears as hypodense filling defects surrounded by contrast, while chronic thrombus may show peripheral enhancement or calcification. The imaging appearance varies with clot age, composition, and degree of organization. Accurate identification is crucial for treatment planning, as acute thrombus may respond to thrombolytic therapy while chronic organized thrombus typically requires mechanical intervention. Associated findings include vessel expansion and absent flow signals on Doppler studies.
Usage
Usage note: Specify acuity (acute vs chronic) when determinable, as this impacts treatment approach.
In Context
- "CT angiography revealed extensive intraluminal thrombus throughout the left popliteal artery with complete occlusion." — Acute limb ischemia imaging report
- "Chronic intraluminal thrombus in the infrarenal aorta showed peripheral calcification and no enhancement." — Aortic aneurysm surveillance study