arteriesstenose

Arteriesstenose, or arterial stenosis, denotes narrowing of an artery that limits blood flow to tissues supplied by the vessel. The most common cause is atherosclerosis, with deposition of lipid-rich plaque within the arterial wall that reduces luminal diameter. Other causes include fibromuscular dysplasia, inflammatory vasculitis, dissection, or congenital anomalies. Stenosis can be asymptomatic or lead to tissue ischemia or embolic events.

Common sites include carotid arteries, renal arteries, intracranial vessels, and peripheral arteries such as the iliac and femoral segments. In the carotid arteries, stenosis raises the risk of ischemic stroke, while renal artery stenosis can cause hypertension and reduced kidney function. Peripheral arterial stenosis may produce claudication or critical limb ischemia depending on the location.

Symptoms and presentation vary by location. Carotid stenosis is often silent but may present with transient ischemic attacks or stroke. Renal artery stenosis classically causes resistant hypertension and progressive kidney dysfunction. Peripheral arterial disease presents with leg pain on exertion, diminished pulses, or rest pain when arteries of the limbs are affected.

Diagnosis typically begins with duplex ultrasonography. If stenosis is suspected or requires characterization, CT angiography or MR angiography provides detailed imaging, and invasive angiography is used when planning intervention.

Management emphasizes risk-factor modification and medical therapy, including antiplatelet agents and statins, along with strict blood pressure, lipid, and glucose control. Revascularization is considered for significant carotid stenosis in selected patients (carotid endarterectomy or carotid artery stenting), and for renal or peripheral stenosis when indicated by symptoms, blood pressure control, or renal function. Follow-up imaging guides ongoing care.