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Over time, a number of plaques may form within the wall of an artery, some of which may combine to form larger plaques. This leads to a narrowing of the [[lumen]] of the artery, constricting the flow of blood. Depending on the artery affected, this may present as a variety of symptoms, including [[ischemic heart disease]] (coronary arteries), [[syncope]] (carotid arteries) or hypertension (renal arteries). Plaques can be either stable or unstable depending on the ratio of their shell thickness to liquid core, with a lower ratio corresponding to a less stable plaque. Unstable plaques may be eroded or rupture into the lumen of an atery, spelling their contents into the blood. This can lead to the formation of a [[thrombus]], which can further occlude the flow of blood. Large thrombi may completely prevent the passage of red blood cells, leading to [[ischemia]] and [[infarction]] of the supplied tissue.
Over time, a number of plaques may form within the wall of an artery, some of which may combine to form larger plaques. This leads to a narrowing of the [[lumen]] of the artery, constricting the flow of blood. Depending on the artery affected, this may present as a variety of symptoms, including [[ischemic heart disease]] (coronary arteries), [[syncope]] (carotid arteries) or hypertension (renal arteries). Plaques can be either stable or unstable depending on the ratio of their shell thickness to liquid core, with a lower ratio corresponding to a less stable plaque. Unstable plaques may be eroded or rupture into the lumen of an atery, spelling their contents into the blood. This can lead to the formation of a [[thrombus]], which can further occlude the flow of blood. Large thrombi may completely prevent the passage of red blood cells, leading to [[ischemia]] and [[infarction]] of the supplied tissue.
==Investigation==
Atherosclerosis is not generally investigated unless it causes clinical symptoms/signs. While it is not possible to visualise the plaque within the wall of the artery, it is possible to measure its effects through either a [[doppler ultrasond]] or an [[angiogram]]. A ''doppler ultrasound'' measures the flow of blood through an artery using a probe which is placed on the skin. An angiogram involves injecting arteries with radioopaque dye, and then taking x-rays to identify any areas of constriction.
Serum cholesterol is often routinely measured. Elevated levels (hypercholesterolemia) can indicate an increased risk of atherosclerosis, and a need for lifestyle modification or pharmacological treatment.
==References==
==References==
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