Keywords
Atherosclerosis
Lipids
Inflammation
Endothelium
Smooth muscle cell
Macrophages
Collagen
Vulnerable plaque
Matrix metalloproteinases
Wall stress
Thrombosis
Statins
Lipids
Inflammation
Endothelium
Smooth muscle cell
Macrophages
Collagen
Vulnerable plaque
Matrix metalloproteinases
Wall stress
Thrombosis
Statins
How to Cite
Mundo-Sagardía, J. A., Figueroa, Y., Altieri, P. I., Banchs, H. L., Escobales, N., & Crespo, M. J. (2008). The atherosclerotic plaque. Puerto Rico Health Sciences Journal, 27(3). Retrieved from https://prhsj.rcm.upr.edu/index.php/prhsj/article/view/76
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is the most frequent cause of ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular disorders. The condition is the leading cause of death in Western societies. At the core of this condition is the atherosclerotic plaque. It is within the structure of this lesion that multiple biochemical and cellular processes interact influencing its vulnerability to rupture and as a result acute ischemic events. This article will discuss the pathophysiology behind the atherosclerotic plaque, particularly those elements that lead to its instability and the medical tools currently available to counteract it.
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