Pathophysiology of Atheroma

Question 1

What is the definition of atheroma?

Answer 1

Formation of focal elevated lessons (plaques) in the imtima of large and medium-sized arteries

Question 2

Describe the generic progression of atheroma formation?

Answer 2

• Fatty Streak
• Early atheromatous plaque
• Fully developed atheromatous plaque

Question 3

What comprises a fatty streak?

Answer 3

Lipid-laden macrophages - look like a yellow smear

Question 4

What are the constituents of a fully atheromatous plaque?

Answer 4

Central lipid core capped with fibrous material and covered by endothelial layer

Question 5

What structures can rim the atheroma?

Answer 5

Foamy macrophages

Question 6

What is the nature of atheroma that leads to occlusion of vessels?

Answer 6

Highly thrombogenic

Question 7

What is arteriosclerosis?

Answer 7

Not atheromatous

Age related change in muscular arteries

Question 8

What is the physiological change in arteriosclerosis?

Answer 8

Smooth muscle hypertrophy, apparent reduplication of internal elastic laminae, intimal fibrosis leads to decrease in vessel diameter