What is the term for a clot that is attached to a vessel wall?

A thrombus is a clot that forms within a blood vessel and adheres to the vessel wall. This term specifically refers to a solid mass of blood formed from platelets, fibrin, and red blood cells that can obstruct blood flow. The attachment to the vessel wall is a critical characteristic that differentiates a thrombus from other types of blood clots, such as an embolus, which is a clot that has broken free and is traveling through the bloodstream.

In the context of vascular health, the formation of a thrombus can lead to various health issues, including heart attacks or strokes, depending on where the clot occurs and how it affects blood flow. Understanding the nature of a thrombus is crucial in the study of cardiovascular and vascular diseases, particularly in the context of treatment and prevention strategies in mortuary science. Recognizing and differentiating these terms helps clarify their roles in medical conditions and their implications for patient care.