Atherosclerosis Revision Sheet

1. 📌 Essentials

• Definition: Progressive buildup of LDL cholesterol-rich fatty deposits in arterial walls forming atheromatous plaques.
• Affected arteries: Primarily coronary, carotid, peripheral arteries.
• ** process:** Endothelial dysfunction → fatty streak → fibrous plaque → complicated lesion.
• Major risk factors: Hypercholesterolemia (>160 mg/dl LDL), hypertension, smoking, diabetes.
• Plaque stability: Collagen-rich → stable; Lipid-rich → vulnerable/unstable.
• Critical stenosis: Occlusion >70-75% causes ischemia symptoms.
• Complications: Plaque rupture → thrombosis → vessel occlusion → infarction.
• Clinical manifestations: Asymptomatic initially; symptoms arise from chronic ischemia or acute thrombosis.
• Progression timeline: Begins early in life, becomes symptomatic around ages 35-40.
• Major outcomes: Chronic ischemia, acute MI, stroke, gangrene.

2. 🧩 Key Structures & Components