Part 1 (10 marks) atherosclerotic plaque formation
The formation of an atherosclerotic in the upper branch of the left coronary artery begins with lipid accumulation in the inner lining of the vessel wall. This leads to a buildup of plaque, which is composed of cholesterol, fats, and other cellular waste products. Over time, this narrowing causes reduced blood flow and can lead to further complications such as thrombosis or chest pain. If untreated, these blockages can cause more severe damages to the coronary vessels leading to increased risk for myocardial infarction or stroke. It is important to monitor lipid levels and manage any underlying conditions (e.g., diabetes) that increase one’s risk for developing atherosclerosis in order to prevent serious complications from occurring.