Atherosclerotic plaque

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Atherosclerotic Plaque

Atherosclerotic plaque (pronunciation: ath-er-o-skle-ROT-ik plak) is a deposit of lipids, or fats, on the inner lining of the arterial walls. This condition is a key component of Atherosclerosis, a chronic disease that can lead to serious cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke.

Etymology

The term "atherosclerotic plaque" is derived from the Greek words "athero" meaning gruel or paste, and "sclerosis" meaning hardness. This refers to the hard, fatty deposits that form on the arterial walls.

Formation

Atherosclerotic plaque formation begins when the innermost layer of the artery, the endothelium, becomes damaged. This damage can be caused by factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, or high levels of cholesterol in the blood. Once the endothelium is damaged, cholesterol and other substances accumulate at the site of injury, forming a plaque.

Types of Plaques

There are two main types of atherosclerotic plaques: stable and unstable. Stable plaque has a thick fibrous cap and is less likely to cause a clot or rupture. Unstable plaque, on the other hand, has a thin cap and can rupture, leading to a blood clot that can block blood flow and cause a heart attack or stroke.

Related Terms

  • Artery: A blood vessel that carries oxygenated blood away from the heart to the body.
  • Endothelium: The innermost layer of the artery.
  • Atherosclerosis: A disease in which plaque builds up inside your arteries.
  • Heart attack: A blockage of blood flow to the heart muscle.
  • Stroke: A disease that affects the arteries leading to and within the brain.

External links

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