1604 Artery Anatomy Study Resources

TermDefinition
AneurysmAn abnormal bulge in the wall of an artery that can grow over time and may eventually rupture, causing life-threatening bleeding.
AngioplastyA medical procedure used to widen narrowed or obstructed arteries, typically to treat arterial atherosclerosis.
ArteriesBlood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to various parts of the body.
AtherosclerosisA chronic inflammatory response in the walls of arteries, largely due to the deposition of lipoproteins (cholesterol-containing particles).
Baroreceptor ReflexA critical feedback mechanism that helps maintain blood pressure at nearly constant levels within the human body.
Basement MembraneA layer that provides physical support for endothelial cells and contributes to the selective permeability of vessel walls.
Blood ClotA mass formed by the aggregation of platelets and fibrin in the blood to stop bleeding.
CapillariesThe smallest blood vessels in the body, facilitating the exchange of water, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and other nutrients and waste substances between blood and surrounding tissues.
CoagulationThe body’s mechanism to prevent excessive bleeding when a blood vessel is injured, involving the activation of a cascade that leads to the formation of a stable blood clot.
Continuous CapillaryThe most common type of capillary, characterized by a continuous endothelial layer, facilitating exchange between blood and tissues.
Elastic ArteryA large vessel that leads directly from the heart, equipped to handle high pressure and large volumes of blood, characterized by its ability to stretch and recoil.
EndotheliumThe innermost lining of blood vessels, providing a smooth surface that reduces friction and allows blood to flow freely.
ErythrocytesRed blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the body’s tissues and returning carbon dioxide to the lungs for exhalation.
Fatty StreaksThe earliest visible lesions in the development of atherosclerosis, consisting of lipid-laden foam cells.
Fibrous PlaqueAn advanced atherosclerotic lesion characterized by a lipid core, inflammatory cells, smooth muscle cells, and a fibrous cap.
Foam CellsMacrophages that have ingested low-density lipoproteins (LDL), becoming lipid-laden and contributing to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques.
Intercostal ArteriesBranching vessels from the thoracic aorta that supply blood to the ribs, chest wall, and muscles between the ribs.
IntimaThe innermost layer of an artery or vein, consisting of endothelial cells and a thin layer of connective tissue.
Muscular ArteryA type of artery with a thick layer of smooth muscle in its wall, capable of contracting or relaxing to regulate blood flow and pressure.
PlaqueAn accumulation of lipids, cholesterol, and other substances on the arterial wall, leading to atherosclerosis.
Smooth MuscleMuscle found in the walls of arteries that can contract or relax to change the diameter of the artery, thus regulating blood pressure and flow.
StentA small wire mesh tube used to keep an artery open after an angioplasty procedure.
ThrombusA blood clot that forms in a vessel and remains there, potentially leading to vascular obstruction.
Tunica MediaThe middle layer of an artery or vein, composed of smooth muscle cells and elastic fibers, providing structural support and elasticity.
Unstable PlaqueA type of atherosclerotic plaque with a thin fibrous cap that is prone to rupture, leading to the formation of a thrombus and potentially causing a heart attack or stroke.