Atheroma degeneration is a process that occurs in the walls of blood vessels, leading to the formation of fatty deposits called atheromas. The word "atheroma" is pronounced as /æθəˈrəʊmə/ (ath-uh-roh-muh), with the stress on the second syllable. The word "degeneration" is pronounced as /dɪˌdʒɛnəˈreɪʃən/ (dih-jen-uh-rey-shuhn), with the stress on the third syllable. The spelling of this term follows the usual rules for English spelling, with the exception of the letter "th" which is pronounced as a single sound /θ/ (like in the word "thin").
Atheroma degeneration is a pathological condition characterized by the accumulation of fatty deposits known as plaques within the walls of arteries, leading to their thickening and narrowing. The term "atheroma" specifically refers to a type of plaque that forms due to the buildup of lipids, such as cholesterol and triglycerides, within the innermost layer of arteries called the intima.
The development of atheroma degeneration is a complex process involving various factors, including chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and the abnormal migration and proliferation of smooth muscle cells. Over time, these plaques undergo structural changes, including the deposition of calcium and the formation of fibrous tissue, which can further restrict blood flow. Consequently, atheroma degeneration can compromise the oxygen and nutrient supply to vital organs and tissues.
This condition predominantly affects medium and large arteries, such as the coronary arteries of the heart, the carotid arteries in the neck, and the femoral arteries in the legs. Atheroma degeneration is a characteristic feature of atherosclerosis, a systemic disease that affects multiple arteries throughout the body.
The consequences of atheroma degeneration depend on the location and extent of the plaque formation. In severe cases, it can lead to complete blockage of arteries, causing ischemia (reduced blood supply) and potentially leading to heart attacks, strokes, or peripheral artery disease.
Treatment of atheroma degeneration typically involves lifestyle modifications, such as adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, and quitting smoking. Medications, such as statins, antiplatelet agents, and blood pressure-lowering drugs, may also be prescribed to manage risk factors and prevent further progression of the condition. In some cases, surgical interventions, such as angioplasty or bypass surgery, may be
The word "atheroma" originates from the Greek words "athḗrēs" meaning "porridge" or "gruel" and "ōma" meaning "tumor" or "mass". In ancient Greek medicine, the term "atheroma" was used to describe a tumor-like mass in internal organs caused by the accumulation of fatty material.
The word "degeneration" comes from the Latin word "degeneratio", derived from "degenerare" meaning "to decline" or "to deteriorate". It refers to the process of deterioration or degeneration of a particular organ, tissue, or cellular component.
When combined, "atheroma degeneration" refers to the pathological condition characterized by the accumulation of fatty substances (atheroma) leading to the gradual deterioration (degeneration) of the affected tissue, particularly observed in the context of atherosclerosis, a disease affecting the arterial walls.