Etymed
atherogenesis
Definition
The formation or development of atheroma or fatty deposits in the arterial wall
Clinical context
A 65-year-old male presents with chest pain and shortness of breath. Cardiac enzymes are elevated and coronary angiography reveals significant stenosis of the left anterior descending artery due to atherosclerotic plaque formation. The patient's history of hypertension, diabetes, and smoking has contributed to the progressive atherogenesis over several years.
Mnemonic
Atherosclerosis = Athero (fatty deposits) + genesis (formation)