MEDRADSC 3C03 Lecture Notes - Lecture 4: Tunica Externa, Tunica Media, Atheroma

• School: McMaster University
• Department: Medical Radiation Sciences
• Course: MEDRADSC 3C03
• Professor: Meaghan Jefferson

Document Summary

Veins & arteries both have 3 layers: tunica intima: internal layer, tunica media: smooth muscle layer, tunica adventitia or externa: outer layer contains collagen fibres. Media & adventitia provide strength & elasticity for high volume of blood. Arteriosclerosis is a general term for all changes in the arteries. Degenerative disease = diabetics or patients over 50. The elasticity of tunica adventitia & flexibility of muscular layer (media) is lost & the walls become thick & hard. Leads to ischemia & necrosis to areas like kidneys, brain, & heart. Atherosclerosis: presence of atheroma - build up plaques on intima. Plaque consists of lipids, cells, fibrin, & cell debris with attached thrombi in large arteries. This leads to stenosis of the vessel & eventually occlusion. This is the most common cause of cva (stenosis or occlusion of the ica) Cause: age, gener, genetic, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, diabetes, hypertension, oral contraceptives, & smoking. Worrying about peripheral emboli lodging in the brian or extremities.