Atheroma
Updated June 08, 2015.
Definition:
An atheroma, also referred to as a plaque, develops due to a process called atherosclerosis. An atheroma is an accumulation of inflammatory cells (like macrophages), cholesterol, and other lipids in the inner wall of arteries.
An atheroma can grow to the point where it narrows or completely occludes a vessel. This can restrict blood, oxygen, and other nutrients needed by tissues and organs of the body to perform important functions in the body.
Definition:
An atheroma, also referred to as a plaque, develops due to a process called atherosclerosis. An atheroma is an accumulation of inflammatory cells (like macrophages), cholesterol, and other lipids in the inner wall of arteries.
An atheroma can grow to the point where it narrows or completely occludes a vessel. This can restrict blood, oxygen, and other nutrients needed by tissues and organs of the body to perform important functions in the body.