Which components are part of Virchow's triad contributing to venous thrombosis?

Virchow's triad identifies three key factors that contribute to the formation of venous thrombosis: hypercoagulability, endothelial damage, and blood stasis. Each of these components plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of venous thrombosis.

Hypercoagulability refers to an increased tendency of the blood to clot, which can be due to various factors such as genetic mutations (like Factor V Leiden), certain malignancies, or conditions like pregnancy and oral contraceptive use. When the blood has an enhanced propensity to clot, it significantly increases the risk of thrombus formation in veins.

Endothelial damage is another critical factor in thrombus formation. The endothelium, which is the inner lining of blood vessels, normally has anti-thrombotic properties. When it is damaged—due to factors like mechanical injury, inflammation, or the effects of chemicals—these protective properties are compromised, leading to an increased risk of thrombosis.

Blood stasis, the third component, occurs when there is a slowdown or cessation of blood flow, commonly seen in conditions such as prolonged immobility or varicose veins. When blood flow is reduced, it promotes clot formation because the normal shear stress that helps to prevent clotting is diminished