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Atherosclerotic Plaque

Meaning

A complex, pathological structure that develops within the innermost layer (intima) of arterial walls, serving as the definitive hallmark lesion of the systemic disease known as atherosclerosis. This plaque is fundamentally composed of a soft, necrotic core of accumulated lipids, cholesterol crystals, and cellular debris, encased by a protective fibrous cap of smooth muscle cells and collagen. Its presence progressively restricts normal blood flow and, most critically, its destabilization and rupture can precipitate acute thrombotic events such as a heart attack or ischemic stroke.