What happens when atheroma ruptures?
A plaque rupture may result in thrombus formation, partial or complete occlusion of the blood vessel, and progression of the atherosclerotic lesion due to organization of the thrombus and incorporation within the plaque.
What is the difference between stable and unstable plaque?
Stable and unstable plaque. Stable plaque is less likely to rupture. These plaques have a thick fibrous cap and are made up of substances that are stable and not likely to rupture. Unstable plaque is more likely to rupture. These plaques have a thin fibrous cap and are made up of substances like fats that can expand.
What makes a plaque unstable?
Plaque instability begins with endothelial activation caused by both the classic cardiac risk factors (elevated cholesterol levels, smoking, and hypertension) and more recently identified factors (homocysteine, immune complexes, and some infectious agents).
What are coronary events?
Any interruption of blood flow will lead to an injury, or infarction. This is called a heart attack, or a myocardial infarction (MI). This is also known as a coronary or cardiovascular event.
What is angina pectoris syndrome?
Angina pectoris—or simply angina—is chest pain or discomfort that keeps coming back. It happens when some part of your heart doesn’t get enough blood and oxygen. Angina can be a symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD).
Is stable angina or unstable?
Stable angina occurs predictably. It happens when you exert yourself physically or feel considerable stress. Stable angina doesn’t typically change in frequency and it doesn’t worsen over time. Unstable angina is chest pain that occurs at rest or with exertion or stress.
What makes an atherosclerotic plaque stable?
The stable plaque (right) is characterized by a low-grade inflammation and enrichment of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) which stabilize the lesion. Notably, certain MMP production is necessary for SMC capability to migrate and subsequently stabilize the atheroma.
Do Statins stabilize plaque?
Statins help lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also known as “bad” cholesterol, in the blood. They draw cholesterol out of plaque and stabilize plaque, Blaha says.
What is ACS in cardiology?
Overview. Acute coronary syndrome is a term used to describe a range of conditions associated with sudden, reduced blood flow to the heart. One such condition is a heart attack (myocardial infarction) — when cell death results in damaged or destroyed heart tissue.
What is a cardiac incident?
It occurs when something interrupts your heart’s function or blood flow, which is why having any form of heart disease could be a precursor to a cardiac event. Acute cardiac episodes or events lead to decompensated cardiac function, which can then impact your pulmonary, vascular, or neurological systems.