What does the term spetic mean when applied to an embolus?

The term "septic" when applied to an embolus refers to an embolus that contains infectious material, such as bacteria or other pathogens. This type of embolus can lead to septic embolism, where the infectious agents travel through the bloodstream and can cause infections in distant tissues or organs. Septic emboli often arise from infected heart valves, abscesses, or other sources of infection and can result in serious complications, including sepsis.