Atheromatous Vascular Disease

Question 1

What is atherosclerosis?

Answer 1

Thickening of arterial walls due to invasion/accumulation of foam cells and lipids

Question 2

What are the risk factors for atherosclerosis? - Modifiable

Answer 2

Diabetes
Dyslipoproteinemia
Smoking
High CRP
Vit B6 deficiency
Iodine deficiency/hypothyroidism

Question 3

What are the risk factors for atherosclerosis? - Non-modifiable

Answer 3

Age
Male gender
Family history
Genetic abnormalities (familial hypercholesterolemia)

Question 4

Define macrovascular disease

Answer 4

Disease of any large blood vessels (arteries)

Question 5

Define microvascular disease

Answer 5

Disease of smaller blood vessels (arterioles)

Question 6

How can we limit atherosclerosis? - Lifestyle changes

Answer 6

Reduce BMI (20-25)
<10% calories from sat fats
Increase fruit/fibre
Increase exercise

Question 7

How can we limit atherosclerosis? - Pharmacologically

Answer 7

Reduce lipid levels (statins/fibrates)
Reduce BP (ACEi, Diuretics, Ca Blockers)
Good glucose control (glitazones, insulin)
Antiplatelets - prevent clotting, allow blood flow (LMWH, Warfarin)