[From regression to stabilization: new insights into the evolution of coronary atherosclerotic plaque]

G Ital Cardiol (Rome). 2022 Dec;23(12):948-957. doi: 10.1714/3913.38962.
[Article in Italian]

Abstract

Coronary artery atherosclerosis is a constantly evolving disease. Over the years, new drug therapies have been shown to reduce adverse cardiovascular events and improve the survival of patients with coronary artery disease. New intracoronary imaging modalities, including intravascular ultrasound, optical coherence tomography, and near-infrared spectroscopy, have been introduced to detect the anatomic changes which follow an effective lipid-lowering therapy in human coronary plaques. Particularly, the use of optical coherence tomography made it possible to evaluate plaque composition and showed how an intensive lipid-lowering therapy can stabilize atherosclerosis by improving vulnerable plaque features. Future non-invasive applications are required for large-scale use of these findings.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Atherosclerosis*
  • Coronary Artery Disease* / diagnostic imaging
  • Heart
  • Humans
  • Lipids
  • Plaque, Atherosclerotic* / diagnostic imaging

Substances

  • Lipids