Atherosclerosis Flashcards
What is the definition of atherosclerosis?
Atherosclerosis is the accumulation of intracellular and extracellular lipid int the intima and media of large and medium sized arteries - consequence is the thickening and hardening of arterial walls
What is the definition of arteriosclerosis?
The thickening of the walls of arteries and arterioles usually as a result of hypertension or diabetes mellitus
What are some macroscopic features of atherosclerosis?
- Fatty streak
- Simple plaque
- Complicated plaque
What is a fatty streak?
The first grossly visible lesion in the development of atherosclerosis
Where are the lipid deposits when a fatty streak is seen?
In intima
How do fatty streaks appear?
Irregular yellow-white discolouration on the luminal surface of an artery
Yellow, slightly raised
What do fatty streaks consist of?
Aggregates of foam cells
