Aortic Atherosclerosis (Older Lesion)
Atherosclerosis is generally thought to result from the gradual build-up of cholesterol, fibrin, fatty materials, calcium, and other substances inside the arteries, where they form plaques. Many scientists believe that these plaques develop at sites of arterial injuries, which have long been assumed to be related to high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, and other known atherosclerosis risk factors. However, some researchers have suggested that atherosclerosis-initiating injuries may also stem form chronic inflammation of the arterial walls. Although there is significant debate regarding the issue, viral and bacterial infections could cause such inflammation and are, therefore, currently under investigation as possible factors that contribute to the development of atherosclerosis.