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Multiple Choice
Which of the following terms refers to the process by which a blood clot dissolves?
A
Fibrinolysis
B
Hemostasis
C
Thrombosis
D
Coagulation
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the key terms provided in the question. Each term refers to a specific process related to blood clotting or its dissolution. Clarifying these terms will help identify the correct answer.
Step 2: Define 'Fibrinolysis': This term refers to the process by which a blood clot is dissolved. It involves the breakdown of fibrin, the protein that forms the structural framework of a clot, through the action of enzymes like plasmin.
Step 3: Define 'Hemostasis': This term refers to the process of stopping bleeding. It includes three main steps: vascular spasm, platelet plug formation, and coagulation. Hemostasis is not directly related to dissolving clots but rather to forming them to prevent blood loss.
Step 4: Define 'Thrombosis': This term refers to the formation of a blood clot within a blood vessel, which can obstruct blood flow. It is a pathological process and does not involve dissolving clots.
Step 5: Define 'Coagulation': This term refers to the process of blood clot formation, where fibrinogen is converted into fibrin to stabilize the clot. Coagulation is the opposite of fibrinolysis, as it creates clots rather than dissolving them.