2.7 Pathology Of CVD Flashcards
What is atherosclerosis?
Formation of plaques called atheromas beneath the endothelium in the wall of arteries
Plaques contain cholesterol& overtime can come enlarged by addition of fibrous material, calcium and more cholesterol
What can Large atheromas result in?
A reduction in the diameter of arteries lumen
Reduction of bloodflow in the capillary bed served by that Artery
Increase in blood pressure
What happens during hardening of the arteries?
Large plaques hardened by deposits of calcium cause arterial walls to become Thicker and lose their elasticity
Atherosclerosis can lead to…
Heart disease, angina, stroke, heart attack, peripheral vascular disease
What is Thrombosis?
The formation of a blood clot (thrombus) brought about when a atheroma becomes bigger and bursts through endothelium.
Why does blood clot?
Blood clotting as a protective action triggered by damage to cells it normally occurs to prevent loss of blood at a wound
The stages of blood clot’s
The presence of damage cells releases clotting factors which activate the enzyme prothrombin (inactive in blood plasma) to convert to its active form called thrombin which promotes fibrinogen(soluble plasma protein) into threads of fibrin which forms a meshwork which clots the blood
What is an embolus?
A thrombus which breaks loose
What is Coronary Thrombosis?
Blockage of a coronary artery by and embolus which blocks an narrowed vessel and restricts blood flow or even brings it to a complete halt.
Thrombus in an artery in a brain
Can lead to a stroke and may result in death of some of the tissues served by that artery because they are deprived of oxygen
What is peripheral arteries
Arteries other than aorta and coronary and carotid arteries
What is peripheral vascular disease?
When peripheral arteries are affected by atherosclerosis and the central cavity becomes narrowed restricting blood flow , most commonly in the leg
What is Deep vein thrombosis
Formation of a thrombus in a vein most commonly in the calf of the lower leg can cause pain and swollen leg and veins close to the skin surface can also become engorged with blood
What is a pulmonary embolism?
When An embolus is transported via the vena cava and heart chambers to the pulmonary artery where it may block a small arterial branch causing chest pains, breathing difficulties and palpitations
Treatment for Pulmonary Embolism
Anticoagulant drugs to thin blood and If untreated can lead to collapse of sudden death
