Arteriosclerosis vs Atherosclerosis

  • Thread starter Monique
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In summary, arteriosclerosis is the plaque buildup INSIDE the vein, whereas atherosclerosis is the hardening of the vein due to the plaques inside.
  • #1
Monique
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There is a difference, but it seems a little fuzzy to me. Sclerosis means the hardening of the bloodvessel due to calcium deposits, but what is the difference between arterio and athero?
 
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  • #2
Looks to me like they are very close to being the same thing?

http://cancerweb.ncl.ac.uk/cgi-bin/omd?query=arteriosclerosis
http://cancerweb.ncl.ac.uk/cgi-bin/omd?atherosclerosis
 
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  • #3
According to:
http://www.mercksource.com/pp/us/cn...zSzdorlandszSzdorlandzSzdmd_a_62zPzhtm#929482

arteriosclerosis (ar·te·rio·scle·ro·sis) (ahr-t[emacr]r²e-o-skl[schwa]-ro¢sis) [arterio- + sclerosis] any of a group of diseases characterized by thickening and loss of elasticity of arterial walls; there are three distinct forms: atherosclerosis, Mönckeberg's a., and arteriolosclerosis. Called also arterial sclerosis and vascular sclerosis.



atherosclerosis (ath·ero·scle·ro·sis) (ath²[schwa]r-o-skl[schwa]-ro¢sis) [athero- + sclerosis] a common form of arteriosclerosis in which deposits of yellowish plaques (atheromas) containing cholesterol, lipoid material, and lipophages are formed within the intima and inner media of large and medium-sized arteries.

Mönckeberg's arteriosclerosis, medial arteriosclerosis with extensive deposits of calcium in the media of the artery; called also Mönckeberg's calcification, degeneration, mesarteritis, or sclerosis; medial a.; and medial calcific sclerosis.

arteriolosclerosis (ar·te·rio·lo·scle·ro·sis) (ahr-t[emacr]r²e-o²lo-skl[schwa]-ro¢sis) sclerosis and thickening of the walls of the smaller arteries (arterioles). Hyaline arteriolosclerosis, in which there is homogeneous pink hyaline thickening of the arteriolar walls, is associated with benign nephrosclerosis. Hyperplastic arteriolosclerosis, in which there is a concentric thickening with progressive narrowing of the lumina, may be associated with malignant hypertension, nephrosclerosis, and scleroderma.
 
  • #4
So it is starting to make a little sense,

athero is caused by lipid deposits.. though I am not sure yet what the prime cause is of Mönckeberg's arteriosclerosis and arteriolosclerosis ..
 
  • #5
That link you posted isn't working?
 
  • #6
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  • #7
arteriosclerosis vs. atherosclerosis

You're both getting close.

Atherosclerosis is the plaque buildup INSIDE the vein (you're correct).

Arteriosclerosis is the hardening of the vein because of the plaques inside - which have caused scarring on the vein tissue. Therefore, Arteriosclerosis is actually an advanced stage of Atherosclerosis.

Better late than never with the reply, right?

:smile:
 

What is the difference between arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis?

Arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis are both conditions that involve the hardening and narrowing of the arteries. However, arteriosclerosis refers to a general thickening and stiffening of the arterial walls, while atherosclerosis specifically involves the buildup of plaque deposits on the arterial walls.

What causes arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis?

The exact causes of arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis are not fully understood, but it is believed that several factors contribute to their development. These include high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle.

What are the symptoms of arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis?

Both conditions may not have any symptoms in the early stages. As they progress, symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and weakness. In severe cases, atherosclerosis can lead to heart attack or stroke.

Can arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis be prevented?

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent these conditions, a healthy lifestyle can greatly reduce the risk. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, not smoking, and managing any underlying health conditions.

How are arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis treated?

Treatment for both conditions may include lifestyle changes, such as the ones mentioned above. In more severe cases, medication or surgical procedures may be necessary to help manage symptoms and prevent further progression of the diseases.

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