What is a free floating matter in the blood or lymph current known as?

Prepare for the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science Test with interactive quizzes and detailed explanations. Enhance your knowledge and get ready to excel on your exam!

The term "free-floating matter in the blood or lymph current" refers to an embolus, which is a substance that travels through the bloodstream or lymphatic system and can cause blockages in blood vessels. An embolus can consist of various materials, such as blood clots, air bubbles, fat globules, or foreign objects. When it lodges in a vessel and obstructs blood flow, it can lead to serious complications depending on its location, such as pulmonary embolism or stroke.

In the context of this question, an embolus is distinctly characterized by its ability to move freely within the circulatory system, differentiating it from other terms. A thrombus, for instance, is a blood clot that remains attached to the vessel wall, and ischemia refers to the reduced blood flow to tissues, usually due to obstructions like thrombosis. Hydrothorax relates to the presence of fluid in the pleural cavity and does not fit the description of matter floating in circulation.

Understanding the definition and implications of an embolus is crucial in medical and mortuary sciences, particularly regarding how different substances can affect the body's circulatory system.

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