Practice Question
Which of the following is an early contributory factor to the underlying process in the development of atherosclerosis?
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
Inflammation
Rationale:
💠Inflammation is the primary initiating event in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.
💠Endothelial injury—caused by hypertension, hyperlipidemia, smoking, or diabetes—triggers an inflammatory response in the arterial wall.
💠This leads to the recruitment of macrophages and T lymphocytes, which release cytokines and promote oxidation of LDL cholesterol.
💠The oxidized LDL becomes trapped under the endothelium, forming foam cells and fatty streaks, marking the earliest visible stage of atherosclerosis.
💠Over time, continued inflammation results in fibrous plaque formation and arterial narrowing, impairing blood flow and oxygen delivery.
💠Understanding this process guides preventive strategies—such as lipid control, smoking cessation, and anti-inflammatory lifestyle modifications—to reduce cardiovascular risk.
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This question is from Exam 3 - Cardiac FA25 which contains 37 questions.
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Question Details
- Category: RN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: Examplify Exam(s)
- Domain: Medical-Surgical
- Answer Choices: 4