Atheroma Flashcards
1
Q
Atheroma:
A
Formation of focal elevated lesions (plaques) in intima of large and medium-sized arteries (not small)
2
Q
Atheromatous plaques narrowing the lumen can cause ischaemia. What can this cause?
A
Angina
3
Q
What is a common complication of atheroma?
A
Thromboembolism
4
Q
What is arteriosclerosis?
A
Age-related change in muscular arteries
5
Q
List 3 characteristics of arteriosclerosis:
A
- Smooth muscle hypertrophy
- Apparent reduplication of internal elastic laminae
- Intimal fibrosis which leads to a decrease in vessel diameter
6
Q
What conditions does arteriosclerosis lead to?
A
- Cardiac ischaemia
- Cerebral ischaemia
- Colon ischaemia
- Renal ischaemia
7
Q
When are the clinical effects of arteriosclerosis more apparent.
A
When the CVS is FURTHER stressed by haemorrhage, major surgery, infection or shock
8
Q
List the 3 phases of atheroma:
A
- Fatty streak
- Early atheromatous plaque
- Fully developed atheromatous plaque
9
Q
Aetiology/risk factors for atheroma:
A
- Hypercholesterolaemia = most important risk factor
Other risk factors: Smoking Alcohol Diabetes mellitus High blood pressure Unhealthy diet Lack of exercise Older age Family history of CVD Males more likely
10
Q
Atheroma signs:
A
Xanthelasmata (due to hyperlipidaemia) Corneal arcus Tendon xanthomata Poor peripheral pulse Aortic aneurysm
11
Q
How do atheromatous plaques develop?
A
2 step process:
- Firstly there is injury to the endothelial lining of the artery
- Secondly there is a chronic inflammatory and healing response of vascular wall agent causing injury
