What is zwapnienie tętnic?

Here's some information about zwapnienie tętnic (arterial calcification) formatted in Markdown with linked important subjects:

Zwapnienie Tętnic (Arterial Calcification)

Zwapnienie tętnic, also known as arterial calcification, is a pathological process characterized by the accumulation of calcium deposits within the walls of the arteries. This process can stiffen the arteries, reduce their elasticity, and contribute to a variety of cardiovascular diseases.

• Mechanism: The calcification process involves the deposition of calcium phosphate crystals within the arterial walls. This can occur in different layers of the artery, including the intima (inner layer) and media (middle layer). The exact mechanisms are complex and involve various factors, including inflammation, cell death, and the activity of bone-related proteins.

• Risk Factors: Several factors increase the risk of arterial calcification. These include:

  • Aging: The risk increases with age.
  • Chronic Kidney Disease: Impaired kidney function can disrupt calcium and phosphate balance.
  • Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can contribute to arterial damage.
  • Hypertension: High blood pressure can damage arterial walls.
  • Hyperlipidemia: High cholesterol levels can promote plaque formation and calcification.
  • Inflammation: Chronic inflammation contributes to arterial damage.
  • Smoking: Damages blood vessels.
  • Vitamin D deficiency: Plays a role in calcium regulation.

• Types of Arterial Calcification:

  • Intimal Calcification: Typically associated with atherosclerosis and plaque formation, and often found in larger arteries.
  • Medial Calcification: Affects the middle layer of the artery. It tends to be less related to typical atherosclerotic plaques. Is also referred to as Mönckeberg's sclerosis.

• Consequences: Arterial calcification can lead to:

  • Increased Arterial Stiffness: Reducing the artery's ability to expand and contract normally.
  • Atherosclerosis: The hardening and narrowing of the arteries.
  • Cardiovascular Disease: Increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.

• Diagnosis: Arterial calcification can be detected through various imaging techniques, including:

  • X-rays: Can reveal calcified areas in the arteries.
  • CT Scans: Provide detailed images of the arteries and calcium deposits.
  • Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Scoring: A specific CT scan to measure the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries.

• Treatment and Prevention: There is no specific treatment to reverse arterial calcification. Management focuses on:

  • Managing Risk Factors: Controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Healthy diet, regular exercise, and smoking cessation.
  • Medications: Statins to lower cholesterol, blood pressure medications, and other medications as needed.
  • Vitamin K: Shown to inhibit vascular calcification.