The composition of coronary-artery plaques
Article Abstract:
The use of cholesterol-lowering drugs may lower the risk of heart attack by stabilizing fatty plaques in the coronary arteries. Most heart attacks are caused by the formation of a blood clot in the coronary arteries. This often happens when a plaque ruptures or erodes. A 1997 autopsy study of the hearts of men who had died of a heart attack found that elevated cholesterol levels during life were associated with a greater number of plaques as well as plaque rupture. A diagnostic challenge is to create a technique for visualizing these plaques.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 1997
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Unstable coronary-artery plaques
Article Abstract:
The formation and rupture of atherosclerotic plaque inside coronary arteries is reviewed. This plaque is what blocks blood flow to the heart, causing chest pain, or angina. If the plaque ruptures, a blood clot can form, which causes a heart attack. Stabilizing the plaque and preventing it from rupturing may reduce the risk of heart attack in patients with coronary artery disease.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 2003
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From asthma to atherosclerosis--5-lipoxygenase, leukotrienes, and inflammation
Article Abstract:
An enzyme called 5-lipoxygenase may be involved in the development of atherosclerosis. This enzyme converts arachidonic acid into substances called leukotrienes. These substances in turn can attract immune cells called monocytes. If this process takes place inside an artery, it may contribute to the plaque that eventually blocks the artery.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 2004
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