intimal hyperplasia
Pronunciation: in-TIM-al hy-per-PLAY-zhah
Abnormal thickening of the innermost layer of blood vessel walls due to smooth muscle cell proliferation and matrix accumulation.
Full Definition
Intimal hyperplasia is a pathological process characterized by the excessive growth and thickening of the intima, the innermost layer of blood vessel walls. This condition typically occurs in response to vascular injury, such as from balloon angioplasty, stent placement, or surgical bypass procedures. The hyperplastic tissue consists primarily of proliferated smooth muscle cells and extracellular matrix proteins. Intimal hyperplasia is a major cause of restenosis following vascular interventions and can lead to recurrent vessel narrowing.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as IH in clinical notes; ensure proper hyphenation in formal documents.
In Context
- "Histologic examination revealed significant intimal hyperplasia at the anastomotic site." — Pathology report
- "Drug-eluting stents are designed to reduce intimal hyperplasia and prevent restenosis." — Clinical research paper