Vascular Disease Flashcards
what factors contribute to the disturbance in blood flow?
Pathologic changes in the vessel wall (Atherosclerosis and vasculitis). Acute vessel obstruction due to thrombus, embolus or vasospasm (Raynaud’ phenomenon). Abnormal vessel dilation
(Arterial aneurysms or varicose veins). Compression of blood vessels by extravascular forces (Tumors or edema)
What are the three layers of blood vessels?
Tunica Intima:Innermost layer lines the lumen.
Tunica Media: Middle layer. Smooth muscle & elastic fibers. Responsible for vaso dilation & constriction. Tunica Adventitia: Most superficial. Dense irregular basement membrane. Collagen fibers for strength
What are the three types of arteriosclerosis?
Atherosclerosis: Plaque buildup of fat, cholesterol, or calcium. Moenckeberg medial calcific sclerosis: Calcium deposits in the Tunica Media. Poorer diagnosis. Arteriolosclerosis: Vessel wall thickening and luminal narrowing in the small arteries and arterioles
What are major complications of atherosclerosis?
Ischemic heart disease, Stroke (Carotid Arterial Disease), Aneurysm, Peripheral vascular disease
What happens as a result of carotid artery disease?
block the carotid arteries to the brain and cause paralyzing strokes. Without Atrial Fibrillation, 90% come from the ICA
What is a TIA?
Transient episode of neurologic dysfunction caused by loss of blood flow either focal brain, spinal cord or retinal without infarction. Usually resolves in 24 hours
What are symptoms of TIA?
monocular blindness (amaurosis fugax), aphasia, slurred speech (dysarthria) and mental confusion. periorbital numbness
What is the diagnostic function of duplex ultrasonography?
evaluates central (abdominal) and peripheral arteries and veins by determining the amount of vascular stenosis or occlusion within an artery. assists in ruling out aneurysmal disease and is the main aid to rule out thrombotic events
What is rheumatic fever?
Inflammatory disease following Streptococcus pyogenes infection i.e. Strep pharyngitis. Usually develops two to four weeks after a Group A Strep infection
What are the major manifestations of rheumatic fever?
Migratory arthritis, Carditis and valvulitis, Erythema marginatum, Sydenham’s chorea (rapid movements without purpose of the face and arms occurring late in the disease)
What are the minor criteria for rheumatic fever?
fever, Joint pain without swelling, Elevated ESR or C reactive protein, Leukocytosis, as prolonged PR interval
What is the treatment of rheumatic fever?
Aspirin (careful in children), NSAID’s, Penicillin or Clarithromycin or Zpack
Describe aortic aneurysms/dissections
Aneurysms (bulges) in weak areas of its walls. Most common cause is atherosclerosis. Dissection (separation of the layers of its wall). Inner lining of the aortic wall tears. Artery wall deteriorates. usually associated with high blood pressure
What is a thoracoabdominal anerysm?
Traumatic occur at ligamentum arteriosum. Just beyond the Left subclavian artery. From rapid deceleration accidents (MVA’s & Falls)
What is the clinical presentation of thoracic aortic aneurysm?
Sub sternal, back or abdominal pain. Dyspnea, stridor, or brassy cough (trachea pressure). Dysphagia (Pressure on esophagus). Hoarseness (Pressure on recurrent laryngeal nerve). Neck and arm edema from SVC compression. Start on beta blockers/call surgeon
What are screening recommendations for AAA?
ultrasonography is a highly sensitive and specific screening test for AAA. One-time screening recommended in men ages 65-75 who have ever smoked or who have never smoked but have a first degree relative who had AAA