Pathophysiology of Atherosclerotic Plaque Development

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases and in particular coronary atherosclerotic disease are the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in the industrialized countries. Coronary atherosclerosis has been recognized for over a century and it was the subject of various studies. Pathophysiological studies have unravelled the interactions of molecular and cellular elements involved in atherogenesis; during the last decades the basic research has focused on the study of the instability of atherosclerotic plaque. Plaque rupture and resulting intracoronary thrombosis are thought to account for most acute coronary syndromes including ST - segment elevation myocardial infarction and non ST - segment elevation myocardial infarction. This is a brief review of the pathophysiology of atherosclerotic plaque development.

Potential Beneficial Effects of Vitamin D in Coronary Artery Disease

“…These macrophages may induce apoptosis of endothelial cells and form a thin fibrous plaque cap that separates the lipid core from the lumen. The plaque consists of degraded smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells, foam cells, cellular debris, lymphocytes and modified lipids [14]. This mechanism is referred to as atherosclerosis and causes a gradual narrowing of the lumen.…”

Echographic features of the structure of atherosclerotic plaques in carotid ischemic stroke

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Pathogenesis regarding development and structure of unstable atherosclerotic plaque in internal carotid artery in relation to high risk factors of an ischaemic stroke. Current status of knowledge

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