HISTOLOGICAL CHANGES IN VASCULAR ENDOTHELIUM DURING EARLY ATHEROSCLEROSIS DEVELOPMENT

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the arterial wall that begins with endothelial dysfunction. Early histological alterations in vascular endothelium play a crucial role in plaque initiation and progression. This study analyzes microscopic structural changes occurring in the endothelium during the early stages of atherosclerosis. Particular attention is given to endothelial cell injury, increased permeability, lipid accumulation, inflammatory cell infiltration, and intimal thickening. Understanding these histological modifications provides insight into the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and may support early preventive strategies.