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Indian Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery
Published in: Indian Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery 3/2018

Open Access 01-12-2018 | Review Article

Current concepts in atherosclerosis

Authors: Mohammad Alkhalil, Robin P. Choudhury

Published in: Indian Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery | Special Issue 3/2018

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Abstract

Atherosclerosis is a complex disease process. It is increasingly recognised that both lipoprotein retention and inflammatory cellular components are intricately related in the initiation and development of atherosclerotic plaque. LDL-c (cholesterol) has been long established as a cause for atherosclerosis; additionally, inflammatory cells such as monocytes and subsequently foam cells have also been directly linked to the progression of atherosclerotic disease. Emerging data suggest that structures outside vascular intima and media are also closely related to atherosclerosis. Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) may be a determinant of the inflammatory status of the atherosclerotic plaque. All these features are becoming extremely relevant as therapies against atherosclerosis are targeting both lipid retention and inflammation. Recently, there has been some success in these novel therapies, such as the proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9 (PCSK-9) inhibitor evolocumab and the interleukin-1ß neutralising antibody, canakinumab, in reducing cardiovascular events when added to standard therapy such as statin. This review will discuss the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, including some novel features, and its management using new anti-atherosclerotic drugs.
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Metadata
Title
Current concepts in atherosclerosis
Authors
Mohammad Alkhalil
Robin P. Choudhury
Publication date
01-12-2018
Publisher
Springer Singapore
Published in
Indian Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery / Issue Special Issue 3/2018
Print ISSN: 0970-9134
Electronic ISSN: 0973-7723
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12055-018-0699-y

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