atheroma

pathology

Also known as: fatty plaque

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Last updated

July 16, 2026

Quick Summary

An atheroma is an abnormal fatty deposit within an artery. It is a key component of atherosclerosis, a chronic disease where fats, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances build up in the inner lining of arteries. This buildup, forming an atheroma or plaque, can cause arteries to thicken and harden, losing elasticity.123

The process often begins with injury to the artery's inner layer, potentially caused by high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or smoking. Over time, these deposits accumulate, narrowing the artery and restricting blood flow. This can lead to serious complications such as heart attack or stroke. Atherosclerosis typically shows no symptoms until significant blockage occurs.324

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arteriosclerosis
…connective tissue is called an atheroma, or fatty plaque. The bigger the plaque, the more it affects the size of the arterial lumen, the area through which the blood flows. If the wall of the vessel is overly thickened from a large atheroma or multiple atheromas, there will be decreased…
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…connective tissue is called an atheroma, or fatty plaque. The bigger the plaque, the more it affects the size of the arterial lumen, the area through which the blood flows. If the wall of the vessel is overly thickened from a large atheroma or multiple atheromas, there will be decreased…
Read More