Clotting Cascade

The clotting cascade is the process your body uses to stop bleeding. When a blood vessel is injured, it triggers a series of chemical reactions involving proteins called clotting factors. These factors work together to convert a protein called fibrinogen into fibrin, forming a mesh that seals the wound. This process happens in two main pathways—intrinsic and extrinsic—that eventually merge into a common pathway, ensuring rapid clot formation. Once the injury is sealed, the body gradually breaks down the clot as healing progresses. Overall, the cascade is a complex, coordinated response to protect against excessive blood loss.