A 60-year-old male presents to his physician complaining of chest pain. He is diagnosed with atherosclerosis. This disease is caused by:
A) arterial wall thinning and weakening.
B) abnormally dilated arteries and veins.
C) abnormal thickening and hardening of vessel walls.
D) autonomic nervous system imbalances.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Atherosclerosis is the abnormal thickening and hardening of vessel walls, specifically the buildup of plaque containing cholesterol and other substances. Arterial wall thinning and weakening (choice A) can lead to an aneurysm, while abnormally dilated arteries and veins (choice B) can result in conditions such as varicose veins or arterial malformations. Autonomic nervous system imbalances (choice D) can affect heart rate and blood pressure, but are not directly related to the development of atherosclerosis.

A 60-Year-Old Male Presents to His Physician Complaining of Chest