An embolus is defined as what?

An embolus is defined as a clot that travels through the bloodstream. This definition accurately describes how an embolus functions within the vascular system. Once formed, a blood clot (thrombus) can dislodge from its site of origin and enter the bloodstream, where it is then termed an embolus. This traveling clot can potentially obstruct blood flow to various organs or tissues, leading to serious medical conditions such as pulmonary embolism or stroke, depending on where it lodges.

The other terms refer to different processes or conditions, such as a stationary clot, which is not traveling and hence does not fit the definition of an embolus. Inflammation of blood vessels refers to a condition known as vasculitis, and vasoconstriction refers to the narrowing of blood vessels due to smooth muscle contraction, neither of which describes an embolus. Thus, the definition of an embolus as a traveling clot effectively captures its critical role in circulatory issues.