Thrombosis

The formation of a blood clot (thrombus) in arteries or veins. In the specific case of venous thrombosis, the clot occurs within deep lying veins usually in the legs. It is generally caused by sluggish blood flow through one part of the body. In some instances, part of the clot can break fee and be carried up to the heart and lungs where it may block an artery; this is known as embolism. A clot in the lung is called pulmonary embolism and is a serious condition.