How is atherosclerosis characterized?

Atherosclerosis is primarily characterized by the buildup of fatty deposits, known as plaques, within the walls of arteries. These plaques are composed of lipids, cholesterol, inflammatory cells, and cellular debris. As these deposits accumulate, they lead to the thickening and hardening of arterial walls, which can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

The process begins with damage to the artery's endothelium, often caused by factors such as hypertension, smoking, or high cholesterol levels. This damage prompts an inflammatory response, leading to the accumulation of substances that form the plaques. As a result, atherosclerosis is fundamentally a lipid-driven process resulting in the physical narrowing of arteries and potentially leading to ischemic conditions, making the identification of fatty deposits as the hallmark of this condition essential for understanding its pathology and implications for cardiovascular health.