Atherosclerosis and Related Cardiovascular Diseases

This set of flashcards focuses on key terms and concepts related to atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular conditions, derived from lecture notes.

Atherosclerosis

A chronic inflammatory condition characterized by the thickening and hardening of arterial walls due to lipid accumulation.

Dyslipidemia

Abnormal plasma lipoprotein concentrations, significant in developing atherosclerosis.

Lipoproteins

Complexes of lipids and proteins that transport cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.

High-density lipoproteins (HDLs)

Lipoproteins that return cholesterol to the liver and are associated with reduced coronary risk.

Low-density lipoproteins (LDLs)

Lipoproteins that carry cholesterol to tissues and are a risk factor for coronary artery disease.

Very low-density lipoproteins (VLDLs)

Lipoproteins that primarily carry triglycerides.

Chylomicrons

Lipoproteins that transport dietary lipids from the intestines to other locations in the body.

Endothelial injury

Damage to the inner lining of blood vessels, contributing to atherosclerosis.

Fatty streak

Initial lesion of atherosclerosis formed by foam cells and lipid deposits.

Fibrous plaque

A more advanced atherosclerotic lesion that contains smooth muscle cells and collagen.

Complicated lesion

An atherosclerotic plaque that has ruptured, leading to thrombus formation.

Cytokines

Signaling proteins released by cells that impact inflammation and cellular processes.

Macrophage

A type of white blood cell involved in the immune response and a key player in atherogenesis.

Foam cells

Macrophages that have ingested oxidized LDL and are characteristic of atherosclerotic plaques.

Coronary artery disease (CAD)

Heart disease caused by reduced blood flow in the coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD)

Atherosclerotic disease affecting the arteries that supply blood to the extremities.

Ischemia

Insufficient blood flow to an organ or tissue, leading to damage or dysfunction.

Aneurysm

Localized dilation of a blood vessel due to weakening of its wall.

Homocysteine

An amino acid linked to increased risk of cardiovascular diseases when present in high levels.

Statins

Medications that inhibit HMG-CoA reductase to lower cholesterol levels.

HMG-CoA reductase

An enzyme that plays a central role in the biosynthesis of cholesterol.

Antithrombotic agents

Medications that reduce the formation of blood clots.

C-reactive protein

A marker of inflammation that can indicate cardiovascular risk.

Oxidative stress

An imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, contributing to cell damage.

Thrombus

A blood clot that forms in a blood vessel and can obstruct circulation.

Physical assessment

The evaluation of the body to detect signs of disease or injury.

Diagnostic imaging

Techniques such as x-rays, ultrasound, and MRI used to visualize internal structures.

Hypertension

High blood pressure, a significant modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

Diabetes

A metabolic disorder that increases the risk of developing atherosclerosis.

Obesity

Excess body fat that increases the risk of atherosclerosis and other health conditions.

Antiplatelet therapy

Medications that prevent platelets from clumping together to form blood clots.

Vasodilators

Medications that relax and widen blood vessels to improve blood flow.

Intermittent claudication

Pain and cramping in the legs during exercise due to reduced blood flow.

Cholesterol

A fatty substance that is essential for cell membrane structure but can contribute to atherosclerosis.

Triglycerides

A type of fat found in blood, elevated levels can be linked to cardiovascular risk.

Lipid panels

Blood tests that measure cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Non-modifiable risk factors

Factors such as age and genetics that cannot be changed and affect disease risk.

Modifiable risk factors

Lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise that can be altered to reduce disease risk.

Antidepressants

Medications that may influence pain management and mood regulation.

Microbiome

The collection of microorganisms living in a particular environment, including the body.

Oxidized LDL

Low-density lipoprotein that has undergone oxidative modification, promoting atherogenesis.

Clinical manifestations

Signs and symptoms that arise due to the presence of disease.

Coronary artery calcification

The buildup of calcium deposits in coronary arteries, often a sign of atherosclerosis.

Exercise

Physical activity that can reduce cardiovascular risk factors and improve health.

Dietary modifications

Changes to eating habits that help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Intima

The innermost layer of a blood vessel.

Media

The middle layer of a blood vessel, consisting of smooth muscle.

Adventitia

The outer layer of a blood vessel.

Lumen

The interior space of a tubular structure, such as a blood vessel.

Acute coronary syndromes

A range of conditions associated with sudden, reduced blood flow to the heart.

Aortic dissection

A serious condition where there is a tear in the inner layer of the aorta.

Endothelium

The thin layer of cells lining blood vessels that regulates exchanges between blood and tissues.