[ath-uh-roh-skluh-roh-sis, ath-] 
| a common form of arteriosclerosis in which fatty substances form a deposit of plaque on the inner lining of arterial walls. |
ath·er·o·scle·ro·sis (āth'ə-rō-sklə-rō'sĭs)  (click for larger image in new window) n. A form of arteriosclerosis characterized by the deposition of atheromatous plaques containing cholesterol and lipids on the innermost layer of the walls of large and medium-sized arteries. [athero(ma) + sclerosis.] ath'er·o·scle·rot'ic (-rŏt'ĭk) adj., ath'er·o·scle·rot'i·cal·ly adv. |
A form of arteriosclerosis in which the arteries become clogged by the buildup of fatty substances, which eventually reduces the flow of blood to the tissues. These fatty substances, called plaque, are made up largely of cholesterol. (Compare arteriosclerosis; see circulatory system.)
atherosclerosis ath·er·o·scle·ro·sis (āth'ə-rō-sklə-rō'sĭs)
n.
A form of arteriosclerosis characterized by the deposition of atheromatous plaques containing cholesterol and lipids on the innermost layer of the walls of large and medium-sized arteries.
atherosclerosis (āth'ə-rō-sklə-rō'sĭs) Pronunciation Key
(click for larger image in new window) A form of arteriosclerosis characterized by the deposition of plaques containing cholesterol and lipids on the innermost layer of the walls of large- and medium-sized arteries. Individuals with atherosclerosis have a higher risk of coronary artery disease and stroke. Smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, and elevated levels of fat in the blood contribute to the development of atherosclerosis. |
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