Atherosclerosis is defined as what?

• A. Plaque buildup in arterial walls leading to luminal narrowing
• B. Thickening of venous walls
• C. Inflammation of bronchi
• D. Calcification of bones

Answer: (A)

Atherosclerosis is the buildup of plaques inside the inner lining of arteries, and this accumulation narrows the vessel lumen, reducing blood flow to tissues downstream. These plaques form from cholesterol-rich deposits along with inflammatory cells, fibrous tissue, and calcium. As they enlarge, they constrict the opening of the artery, which can lead to ischemia and complications such as heart attack or stroke when occurring in coronary or cerebral arteries. This description matches the option about plaque buildup in arterial walls causing luminal narrowing, making it the correct choice. The other options describe processes in veins, the airways, or bones, which are not what happens in atherosclerosis.