View source for Post-Mortem Clots

* Post-mortem clots arise when blood clots within the vessels after death.
* Must be distinguished from thrombosis.
** Unlike thrombi, post-mortem clots are not attached to the vessel wall,
** They have a slimy suface.
** There is separation of the red cell content by gravitation.
*** Upper portion is cell free and is a pale cloudy colour - "chicken fat clot".
*** Lower portion is rich in red blood cells - "redcurrant jelly clot".
* The development of post mortem clots is a highly variable phenomenon.
** Activation of the fibrinolytic system prior to, or immediately after death may prevent clotting.


[[Category:Circulatory Disorders - Pathology]]
[[Category:Cardiology Section]]