Final answer:
Antithrombin deficiency is a genetic disorder that can lead to pulmonary embolus, a serious and potentially fatal blockage in the pulmonary arteries caused by blood clots from deep vein thrombosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
A genetic disorder that can lead to a pulmonary embolus (PE) is antithrombin deficiency. Antithrombin is a protein that helps prevent inappropriate blood clotting, and when deficient, it significantly increases the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT). When DVT occurs, a blood clot can travel to the pulmonary arteries, causing a pulmonary embolus. This can block blood flow to the lungs, causing severe consequences, including lung damage and potentially instant death.
Other disorders, such as Factor V Leiden thrombophilia and prothrombin gene mutation, also predispose individuals to abnormal blood clotting and subsequent PE. It's important to note that while genetic factors can increase the risk of these events, lifestyle and environmental factors can also contribute significantly.