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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Atheroma and Atherosclerosis?

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Atheroma and atherosclerosis are related to the accumulation of fatty material in the arteries, but they refer to different aspects of the process. Here are the key differences between the two:

  • Atheroma:
  • Atheroma refers to the fatty material that clogs your arteries.
  • It is a reversible accumulation of degenerative tissue in the intima of the arterial wall.
  • Atheromas are the fat deposits formed inside the arterial wall.
  • Atherosclerosis:
  • Atherosclerosis is a disease characterized by the buildup of fatty material (plaques) in the arteries.
  • It involves the hardening of any artery due to atheromatous plaque formation.
  • Atherosclerosis is a specific type of arteriosclerosis, which is a group of conditions that cause arteries to become thick and stiff.

In summary, atheroma refers to the fatty material that accumulates in the arteries, while atherosclerosis refers to the disease process that leads to the formation of these plaques and the hardening of the arteries.

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  • What is the Difference Between Atheroma and Atherosclerosis?
  • Comparative Table: Atheroma vs Atherosclerosis

    • Comparative Table: Atheroma vs Atherosclerosis

    Atheroma and atherosclerosis are related but distinct conditions. Here is a table summarizing the differences between them:

    Feature Atheroma Atherosclerosis
    Definition Atheroma refers to the fatty material (plaque) that builds up inside your arteries, consisting of cholesterol, proteins, and other substances. Atherosclerosis is a disease in which plaques (fatty deposits) develop on the inner lining of arteries, causing them to narrow and potentially block blood flow. It is a specific type of arteriosclerosis.
    Causes Atheromas are caused by the buildup of cholesterol, proteins, and other substances in the arteries. Atherosclerosis is caused by the accumulation of fat, calcium, and cellular debris in the innermost layer of the blood vessels, leading to the narrowing of the artery and reduced blood flow.
    Symptoms Atheromas themselves do not usually cause symptoms. However, when they grow and contribute to atherosclerosis, they can lead to complications such as coronary heart disease, angina, carotid artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and chronic kidney disease. Atherosclerosis is often asymptomatic until it leads to complications such as heart attack or stroke.
    Treatment Treatment for atheromas involves lifestyle changes and medications to lower the risk of complications. Treatment for atherosclerosis focuses on managing risk factors, such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and high amounts of fat in the blood.

    In summary, an atheroma is a fatty deposit that forms on the inner lining of arteries, while atherosclerosis is a disease characterized by the accumulation of these deposits, causing the arteries to narrow and potentially block blood flow. Atherosclerosis can lead to various complications, and its treatment aims to manage risk factors and prevent further narrowing of the arteries.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.