Obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) is a chronic, progressive form of heart disease that results from atherosclerosis, or a buildup of damaging plaque in the arteries found on the surface of the heart.
Significance
The arterial plaque that characterizes obstructive coronary artery disease obstructs the flow of blood to the heart. Heart attack or death may result.
Cause
Early in the development of atherosclerosis, fatty streaks form on artery walls. Substances traveling in the bloodstream eventually build up as plaque, filling the lumen, or hollow, of the artery and interfering with blood flow.
Risk Factors
Obstructive coronary artery disease may begin in childhood if there is a family history of early development. Other risk factors include smoking, high levels of fat and cholesterol in the blood, high blood pressure, lack of exercise and excess weight.
Symptoms
Angina pectoris, or sudden chest pain, is often the first sign of obstructive coronary artery disease. It may be because of a plaque rupture or acute myocardial infarction (heart attack).
Treatment
Treatment includes lifestyle modifications and medications to correct some of the risk factors and may include coronary artery bypass surgery.
