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Introduction
Atherosclerosis is he thickening of the arteries due to accumulation of atheromatous plaque along the walls of the arteries. The plaque is composed of macrophages, fat, cholesterol crystals, and calcium deposits.
Gradual thickening and hardening of the walls of the arteries causes narrowing of the lumen, impairment of blood flow and increase in blood pressure.
Any artery of the body may be affected however only severe narrowing of the arteries that supply to critical organs can be recognized. | |