Atherosclerosis begins in which layer of the vessel wall?

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Sharpen your skills for the Davies Publishing SPI Test with targeted flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and clarifications. Prepare thoroughly for success!

Multiple Choice

Atherosclerosis begins in which layer of the vessel wall?

Explanation:
Atherosclerosis begins in the intima, the innermost layer of the vessel wall. When the endothelium is injured or dysfunctional, lipids from the blood, especially LDL, infiltrate into the subendothelial space. LDL becomes oxidized and attracts macrophages, which take up the lipids and become foam cells. This lipid buildup forms fatty streaks—the earliest visible lesion of atherosclerosis. Over time, smooth muscle cells from the media migrate into the intima and contribute to plaque formation, but the initial changes start in the intima. The adventitia and media are not the starting sites for the lipid accumulation seen in early lesions.

Atherosclerosis begins in the intima, the innermost layer of the vessel wall. When the endothelium is injured or dysfunctional, lipids from the blood, especially LDL, infiltrate into the subendothelial space. LDL becomes oxidized and attracts macrophages, which take up the lipids and become foam cells. This lipid buildup forms fatty streaks—the earliest visible lesion of atherosclerosis. Over time, smooth muscle cells from the media migrate into the intima and contribute to plaque formation, but the initial changes start in the intima. The adventitia and media are not the starting sites for the lipid accumulation seen in early lesions.

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