ABSTRACT
The formation of a blood clot within a vessel is normally a benefi cial process, as it prevents blood loss caused by trauma. Dysregulation of this process can lead to bleeding or clotting disorders, including hemophilia and thrombophilia. There are three causal factors of clot formation: the disturbance of blood fl ow, as can occur when an individual is seated for a prolonged length of time; increased blood coagulability, as caused by genetic or autoimmune disorders; and vessel injury. The last cause can be a result of external factors, such as an injury, or pathological conditions, including atherosclerotic vascular disease.
