Atheromata is a medical term that is used to describe the fatty deposits that accumulate inside the walls of arteries. These deposits can cause a narrowing of the arteries and lead to various cardiovascular diseases. This article will provide a detailed definition and meaning of atheromata, along with its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
Atheromata is the plural form of the word atheroma, which is defined as a deposit of plaque on or within the arterial wall. Atheroma is composed of cholesterol, fatty acids, and cellular debris. The accumulation of atheroma can cause the arterial wall to thicken and harden, leading to a condition known as atherosclerosis.
Origin
The word atheroma comes from the Greek words “athera,” meaning porridge or gruel, and “oma,” meaning swelling or tumor. The term was first used in the mid-19th century to describe the fatty deposits that were found in the walls of arteries.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of atheromata is consistent across various dictionaries. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines atheroma as “a fatty deposit in the inner lining of an artery.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines atheroma as “a fatty deposit in the intima (inner lining) of an artery.”
Associations
Atheromata is associated with various cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. These conditions are caused by the narrowing of arteries due to the accumulation of atheroma.
Synonyms
Some of the synonyms of atheromata include plaque, fatty streaks, and cholesterol deposits.
Antonyms
There are no antonyms for atheromata, as it is a medical term that describes a specific condition.
The same root words
The root words of atheromata are “athero,” meaning fatty, and “oma,” meaning swelling or tumor. Other medical terms that use these root words include atherosclerosis, which is the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to the accumulation of plaque, and lipoma, which is a benign tumor composed of fatty tissue.
Example Sentences
- The patient was diagnosed with atheromata in his coronary arteries.
- Atheromata can lead to serious cardiovascular diseases if left untreated.
- The surgeon removed the atheroma from the patient’s carotid artery.
Atheromata is a medical term that describes the fatty deposits that accumulate inside the walls of arteries. These deposits can cause the narrowing of arteries and lead to various cardiovascular diseases. Understanding the definition and meaning of atheromata is important for individuals who have a family history of cardiovascular disease or other risk factors. Early detection and treatment of atheromata can help prevent serious complications and improve overall health.