fatty streak lesions

Fatty streak lesions are early atherosclerotic changes characterised by lipid-laden foam cells accumulating within the intimal layer of arterial walls. They represent the initial visible sign of atherosclerosis and are important because their presence indicates the beginning of a process that can progress to plaque formation, arterial narrowing, and cardiovascular disease. A key clinical association is their role as precursors to more advanced atheromatous plaques, which increase the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke.