Pathology of cardiovascular disease Flashcards
What is atherosclerosis
The build up/accumulation of fatty material, mainly consisting of cholesterol, calcium and fibrous material, forming an atheroma underneath the endothelium.
What happens as the atheroma grows
the artery thickens and loses its elasticity. The diameter of the artery decreases, narrowing the lumen and increasing blood pressure.
What can hardening of the arteries lead to
Angina, heart attack, stroke, peripheral vascular disease.
What is peripheral vascular disease
Narrowing of the arteries somewhere other than the heart or brain. The arteries of the leg are most commonly affected. Pain is experienced due to lack of oxygen
what is DVT
Deep vein thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot in the lower part of the leg in a deep vein resulting in swelling and sever pain
What is a pulmonary embolism
When the thrombus breaks free and travels to the pulmonary artery where it causes a blockage, resulting in breathing difficulties and chest pain.
What is cholesterol
A lipid (fat) found in the cell membrane. It is also used to make sex hormones.
Where is cholesterol synthesised
Across all body cells, however, 25% of the bodies cholesterol is produced in the liver.
What can increase a persons cholesterol levels
DIet high in saturated fats or cholesterol
Where do HDL transport cholesterol
High density lipoproteins transport excess cholesterol from the body cells to the liver for elimination.
Where do LDL transport cholesterol
Towards body cells
Why is a higher ratio of LDL bad for you
Most cells have LDL receptors that take LDL into the cell to release cholesterol. However, once a cell has sufficient cholesterol its negative feedback system inhibits the synthesis of more LDL receptors. this causes LDL to circle the blood and deposit cholesterol into the arteries.
What are the two ways to reduce cholesterol
Reduce intake of highly saturated fats, regular physical activity.
Drugs such as statins, inhibit the synthesis of cholesterol by the liver.
