The Role of Smooth Myocytes and Macrophages in Development of Complicated Forms of Arterial Atherosclerosis

PURPOSE: to conduct morphohistochemical and immunohistochemical study of arterial unstable atherosclerotic plaques for assessment of the state of smooth muscle cells (SMC) and macrophages. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The surgical material of the peripheral arteries (femoral, popliteal, external carotid) was obtained from 50 patients aged over 60 years, followed by morphohistochemical, immunohistochemical studies. RESULTS: Hyperplasia of secretory smooth muscle cells (SMC), and new formation of thin-walled capillary vessels was noted in unstable atherosclerotic plaques. Macrophagic infiltration was detected in the intima of arteries, in places of accumulation of foam cells. CONCLUSION: Unstable atherosclerotic plaque is a cellular-intercellular process with the participation of lipids, macrophages, and with predominance of SMC and newly formed vessels.