vulnerable plaque
An atherosclerotic plaque at high risk of rupture due to specific histological characteristics.
Full Definition
A vulnerable plaque is an atherosclerotic lesion characterized by a thin fibrous cap (typically <65 micrometers), large lipid core, and active inflammation that predisposes it to rupture. These plaques may not cause significant luminal narrowing but pose high risk for acute coronary events when they rupture, leading to thrombosis and vessel occlusion. Vulnerable plaques are also known as thin-cap fibroatheromas (TCFA) and can be identified through advanced imaging techniques such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) or near-infrared spectroscopy. Understanding vulnerable plaque morphology is crucial for risk stratification and targeted therapy in cardiovascular prevention.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from 'culprit lesion' which refers to the plaque that has already caused an acute event.
In Context
- "OCT imaging revealed multiple vulnerable plaques with thin fibrous caps in the proximal LAD." — Interventional cardiology report
- "The patient's acute MI was attributed to rupture of a vulnerable plaque rather than a severely stenotic lesion." — Pathophysiology discussion