Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
atherosclerotic plaque
Fatty deposits that build up in arterial walls, causing vessel narrowing and potential complications.
Full Definition
Atherosclerotic plaque consists of lipids, inflammatory cells, smooth muscle cells, and fibrous tissue that accumulate within the intimal layer of arteries. These deposits can cause luminal narrowing (stenosis), complete occlusion, or rupture leading to thrombotic events. Plaque characteristics such as calcification, ulceration, and composition significantly influence treatment decisions in vascular surgery.
Usage
Usage note: Often shortened to 'plaque' when context is clear; maintain full term in formal documentation.
In Context
- "Heavily calcified atherosclerotic plaque was encountered during the carotid endarterectomy procedure." — operative report
- "Unstable atherosclerotic plaque poses increased risk for distal embolization during intervention." — clinical assessment
Also known as
atheromatous plaque
arterial plaque
Don't confuse with
thrombus
embolus