Tag: endothelial dysfunction

The image displayed illustrates a severe clinical presentation of a non-healing dorsal foot ulcer in a 71-year-old male patient with a history of diabetes and smoking. This visual evidence highlights the critical nature of circulatory compromise, where a wound measuring 2.5 cm by 2.4 cm has remained chronically open for nearly two years due to insufficient blood flow. Understanding the pathophysiology behind such wounds is crucial for recognizing the advanced stages of vascular disease and the importance of multidisciplinary care in limb preservation.

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the progressive buildup of plaques within arterial walls, a process often initiated by endothelial dysfunction. This detailed article elucidates the intricate stages of atherosclerosis, tracing its development from initial, histologically subtle changes to advanced, complicated lesions that pose significant cardiovascular risks. Explore the mechanisms, timeline, and clinical correlations of each stage in this pervasive disease.

This educational illustration demonstrates the progressive stages of atherosclerosis alongside a detailed view of the human heart. The diagram effectively shows how this cardiovascular disease develops over time, from normal arterial function to severe blockage, while also depicting its potential impact on the heart. The color-coded illustration makes it easy to understand the progression of this serious cardiovascular condition.