Atherosclerosis

Alternative names:

arteriosclerosis; hardening of the arteries

Definition:

A disease of the arteries in which fatty material is deposited in the vessel wall, resulting in narrowing and eventual impairment of blood flow.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Atherosclerosis is a common disorder of the arteries. Fat, cholesterol, and other substances collect in the walls of arteries. Larger accumulations are called atheromas or plaques. Eventually, the fatty tissue can erode the wall of the artery, diminish the elasticity (stretchiness) of the artery, and interfere with the blood flow. Clots may form around the plaque deposits, further interfering with blood flow. Severely restricted blood flow in the heart muscle leads to symptoms such as chest pain.

Risk factors include smoking, diabetes, obesity, high blood cholesterol, a diet high in fats, and having a personal or family history of heart disease. Cerebrovascular disease, peripheral vascular disease, high blood pressure, and kidney disease involving dialysis are also disorders that may also be associated with atherosclerosis.

Arteriosclerosis means hardening of the arteries. It accompanies atherosclerosis and is not clearly separated from it. It involves deposits along the arteries, which often contain calcium.