Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a chronic, systemic, inflammatory and metabolic disease and pathologic process characterized by the accumulation of cholesterol and calcium plaque within the arterial wall. [Kobiyama K, et al. Circ Res. 2018;1a]

Low density lipoprotein (LDL) is one of several lipoprotein particles that transport cholesterol (a lipophilic molecule) through the aqueous environment of the blood. Other cholesterol carriers include high-density lipoprotein (HDL), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) and chylomicrons. [Huff 2020;1b; Grundy 2018;7a]

An ascending aortic aneurysm occurs when the aortic wall becomes weakened and enlarges. Many causes exist including atherosclerosis, hypertension and connective tissue disorders.

Carotid artery disease is from atherosclerosis of the carotid artery. The most site is at the proximal internal carotid artery. Microthrombi can embolize distally causing stroke.