9. Atherosclerosis

Question 1

atheroma

Answer 1

abnormal mass of fat in cyst/arterial wall –> thrombosis

Question 2

fatty streak

Answer 2

visible lesion in the development of atherosclerosis

Question 3

complicated atheroma

Answer 3

dystrophic calcification, rupture/erosion emboli also thrombosis/obstruction emboli

Question 4

pathogenesis of atherosclerosis (4)

Answer 4

1. injury/inflammation
2. platelets and monocytes attach to injured intima
3. blood lipids enter the intima (inflammation increases)
4. smooth muscle cells proliferate and migrate fromt he media into the intima –> widening of the intima, ultimately narrowing the lumen

Question 5

where do atheromas usually arise?

Answer 5

bifurcations of arteries

Question 6

complications of atherosclerosis (2 types)

Answer 6

uncomplicated atheroma: no signs/symptoms, low risk

complicated atheroma: calcification, rupture/erosion, thrombosis/obstruction

Question 7

stable plaques

Answer 7

thick fibrous cap, not much inflammation, therefore won’t break easily

Question 8

unstable plaques

Answer 8

thin, weak fibrous cap, therefore prone to breaking, lots of inflammation –> large deposits of fat