8.2 Flashcards
(10 cards)
- What is atherosclerosis?
A condition characterized by the thickening and hardening of medium to large arteries due to plaque buildup, leading to loss of elasticity.
- How does atherosclerosis differ from arteriolosclerosis?
Atherosclerosis involves plaque formation in larger arteries, while arteriolosclerosis affects smaller arterioles with protein/cellular buildup without plaques.
- What are modifiable risk factors for atherosclerosis?
Smoking, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes, which can be improved through lifestyle and medical interventions.
- What are non-modifiable risk factors for atherosclerosis?
Age, race, male sex, and family history.
- How does estrogen influence atherosclerosis risk?
Estrogen is anti-atherogenic; premenopausal women are partially protected, but cardiovascular risk increases after menopause.
- What are the three layers of the arterial wall?
The intima (endothelium with minimal subendothelial connective tissue), media (vascular smooth muscle cells), and adventitia (loose connective tissue with collagen).
- How does atherogenesis begin in the preclinical phase?
Chronic vascular stress leads to endothelial dysfunction, triggering immune responses that produce fatty streaks and early plaque formation.
- What characterizes the clinical phase of atherosclerosis?
Development of vulnerable plaques with a necrotic core that can reduce blood flow, cause vessel wall weakening, and lead to thrombosis or aneurysm.
- What major cardiovascular diseases are linked to atherosclerosis?
Coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease (stroke), peripheral artery disease, and aneurysms.
- What is the take-home message regarding atherosclerosis?
It is an active, multifactorial disease driven by endothelial damage and risk factors that lead to plaque formation, vessel stiffening, and subsequent cardiovascular complications.
