Foam cell
Foam cell
A Foam cell (pronounced: /foʊm sɛl/) is a type of cell that plays a crucial role in the development of atherosclerosis, a disease characterized by the buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on the artery walls.
Etymology
The term "foam cell" is derived from the cell's appearance. These cells look foamy under a microscope due to the large number of lipid-filled vesicles in their cytoplasm.
Definition
Foam cells are a type of macrophage, which are cells that consume foreign substances, bacteria, and dead cells in the body. They are formed when macrophages take in too much low-density lipoprotein (LDL), commonly known as "bad cholesterol". This excessive intake of LDL leads to the formation of large lipid droplets within the cell, giving it a foamy appearance.
Role in Atherosclerosis
Foam cells play a significant role in the development of atherosclerosis. They accumulate at the site of arterial injury, forming fatty streaks, the earliest visible lesion of atherosclerosis. Over time, these fatty streaks can develop into larger plaques, which can rupture and lead to a heart attack or stroke.
Related Terms
- Atherosclerosis: A disease in which plaque builds up inside your arteries.
- Macrophage: A type of white blood cell that engulfs and digests cellular debris, foreign substances, microbes, and cancer cells.
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): A type of lipoprotein that carries cholesterol in the blood. High levels of LDL can lead to atherosclerosis.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Foam cell
- Wikipedia's article - Foam cell
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