Final answer:
The sudden development of a blood clot in the lungs is known as a pulmonary embolism (PE), which can have severe consequences, including lung damage and even death.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a blood clot ends up in the lungs, the patient may have sudden development of pulmonary embolism (PE). This condition occurs when a blood clot, often from a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) as illustrated in Figure 17.8.1, travels through the bloodstream and becomes lodged in the lung's pulmonary arteries.
Pulmonary embolism can lead to severe consequences including lung damage and possibly instant death due to disruption of pulmonary circulation which is critical for gas exchange.
An embolus that causes an embolism in critical organs such as the heart, brain, or lungs can be life-threatening, requiring immediate medical attention.
Conditions such as thrombocytosis increase the risk for excessive clot formation, known as thrombosis. When part of a thrombus breaks free and enters circulation, it's referred to as an embolus, which can result in an embolism.
Additional complications that can arise in the lungs include spontaneous pneumothorax and pulmonary edema, both of which can also lead to significant breathing difficulties and other serious health issues.