Atherosclerosis is a condition in which the arteries become narrowed and hardened due to the buildup of plaque. Plaque is a mixture of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances in the blood that can accumulate on the inner walls of the arteries. Over time, the plaque can narrow the arteries and reduce the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart, brain, and other parts of the body.
The development of atherosclerosis is a slow and gradual process that can occur over many years. It is a major contributor to cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of death globally. Some common risk factors for atherosclerosis include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle.
Treatment for atherosclerosis is aimed at managing the underlying risk factors and reducing the progression of the disease. This may include lifestyle changes, such as exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet, as well as medications, such as cholesterol-lowering drugs and blood pressure medications. In severe cases, procedures such as angioplasty or bypass surgery may be necessary to restore normal blood flow and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Pathophysiology
The pathophysiology of atherosclerosis involves several key processes:
- Endothelial dysfunction: The inner lining of the arteries, called the endothelium, is responsible for maintaining the health of the arteries and regulating blood flow. In atherosclerosis, the endothelium becomes damaged, leading to a state of dysfunction that contributes to the development of plaque.
- Inflammation: The damaged endothelium triggers an inflammatory response, which can attract white blood cells and other substances to the site of injury. This can further contribute to plaque formation and the progression of atherosclerosis.
- Lipid accumulation: Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) are a type of cholesterol that can accumulate in the walls of the arteries. Over time, the accumulation of LDL can form plaques in the arteries, leading to the narrowing and hardening of the arteries.
- Platelet aggregation: The accumulation of plaque can also stimulate platelets to aggregate and form clots, which can further narrow the arteries and increase the risk of blood clots and stroke.
- Progression of plaque: The buildup of plaque can continue over time, leading to the progressive narrowing and hardening of the arteries. This can reduce the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart, brain, and other parts of the body, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease and other health problems.
The pathophysiology of atherosclerosis is complex and involves multiple factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of atherosclerosis is important for the development of effective treatments and strategies to prevent the progression of this disease.
Atheroma
An atheroma is a fatty deposit that forms on the inner walls of arteries. It is a hallmark of atherosclerosis and affects the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart, brain and other parts of the body. Over time, an atheroma can grow larger and harder and become calcified, making it difficult for blood to flow freely through the affected arteries.
Atheromas are made up of a mixture of fatty materials, including cholesterol, cellular waste products, and calcium. They can also become inflamed and can attract cells from the bloodstream that contribute to the formation of a blood clot. Blood clots can further narrow the affected arteries, reducing blood flow and increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke and other complications of atherosclerosis.