atherothrombotic

Atherothrombotic refers to a condition or process involving both atherosclerosis and thrombosis. Atherosclerosis is a disease in which plaque builds up inside the arteries. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. Over time, plaque hardens and narrows the arteries, limiting the flow of oxygen-rich blood to organs and other parts of the body.

Thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot, called a thrombus, within a blood vessel. This clot can partially or completely block the flow of blood. In the context of atherothrombosis, a thrombus typically forms on top of an atherosclerotic plaque. This can happen when the plaque ruptures or erodes, exposing its contents to the blood. The body's clotting system then responds to this injury, forming a clot.

The combination of atherosclerosis and thrombosis is a major cause of cardiovascular diseases. When atherothrombotic processes occur in the arteries supplying the heart, it can lead to a heart attack (myocardial infarction). If it affects the arteries leading to the brain, it can cause a stroke. Atherothrombotic events are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Risk factors for atherothrombosis include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. Management focuses on lifestyle modifications and medications to control risk factors and prevent clot formation.