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Plaque Stability

Meaning

Plaque stability is a clinical concept referring to the structural integrity and resilience of atherosclerotic plaques that form within the walls of arteries. A stable plaque is characterized by a thick fibrous cap, a small lipid core, and minimal inflammatory cell infiltration, making it less likely to rupture. Conversely, an unstable or vulnerable plaque has a thin cap and a large, soft lipid core, posing a high risk for rupture and subsequent thrombus formation, which is the immediate cause of most heart attacks and strokes. Hormonal factors, particularly the protective effects of estrogen, are known to influence the cellular composition and inflammatory state of the plaque, directly impacting its stability.