Coronary Artery Disease Quiz

Study Notes

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Most common form of heart disease.
Occurs when arteries in the heart are blocked, leading to complications including angina, myocardial infarction (MI).
Blockage caused by atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis vs. Arteriosclerosis

Arteriosclerosis: Hardening of the arteries. Muscles fibers and endothelial lining of walls of small arteries and arterioles become thickened.
Atherosclerosis: Involves large and medium-sized arteries. Accumulation of lipids, calcium, and blood components on the intimal layer of the artery.
Both are usually present in the body.

Coronary Atherosclerosis

Abnormal accumulation of lipid deposits and fibrous tissue within arterial walls and lumen.
Blockages and narrowing of the coronary vessels reduce blood flow to the myocardium.

Clinical Manifestations

Symptoms are caused by myocardial ischemia.
Symptoms and complications are related to the location and degree of vessel obstruction.
Angina pectoris: Chest pain due to myocardial ischemia.
Myocardial infarction: Heart attack.
Heart failure: Condition where the heart cannot pump blood effectively.
Sudden cardiac death: Unexpected death from a cardiac event.

Risk Factors

Four modifiable risk factors:
- Cholesterol abnormalities
- Tobacco use
- Hypertension
- Diabetes mellitus
Metabolic syndrome: Combination of risk factors that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

Improving Arterial Circulation

Exercises and activities: Walking, graded isometric exercises. Consult a healthcare professional before prescribing an exercise routine.
Temperature: Effects of heat and cold can impact blood flow.
Smoking cessation: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of heart disease.
Stress reduction: Stress can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease.
Good nutrition, low-fat diet: A healthy diet can help lower cholesterol levels and improve blood flow.
Weight reduction as necessary: Obesity is a major risk factor for heart disease.

Medical Management

Prevention: Lifestyle modifications, medication, and surgery can help prevent heart disease.
Exercise program: Regular exercise can improve cardiovascular health.
Medications:
- Pentoxifylline (Trental) and cilostazol (Pletal): Improve blood flow to the legs and feet.
- Antiplatelet agents: Prevent blood clots.
Surgical management: Procedures like angioplasty and bypass surgery can open blocked arteries.

Indirect Results of Arterial Atherosclerosis

Malnutrition: Due to reduced blood flow to organs.
Fibrosis: Scarring of organs due to lack of oxygen and nutrients.
Aneurysm: Bulging or weakening of an artery.
Ulceration: Open sores in the lining of an artery.
Stenosis of lumen: Narrowing of the artery's opening.

Description

Test your knowledge on Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), including its most common forms and complications. This quiz covers important distinctions between atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis, as well as the clinical manifestations associated with coronary atherosclerosis. Learn the critical aspects that underline this prevalent heart condition.