Qualified Medication Aides (QMA) Practice Exam

What condition is described as arteriosclerosis or atherosclerosis?

1. Thickening of the heart muscle

2. Build up of plaque deposits in blood vessels

3. A dilation of blood vessels

4. A form of heart valve disease

The correct answer is: Build up of plaque deposits in blood vessels

The condition described as arteriosclerosis or atherosclerosis refers to the buildup of plaque deposits in blood vessels. This process involves the accumulation of fats, cholesterol, and other substances on the arterial walls, leading to a narrowing of the arteries and reduced blood flow. Over time, this buildup can result in significant cardiovascular problems, including heart attacks and strokes, as it restricts the passage of blood. Understanding the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis is crucial, especially in the context of cardiovascular health. Factors such as high cholesterol levels, hypertension, smoking, and diabetes can exacerbate this condition by promoting plaque formation and arterial stiffening. It is essential to identify and manage these risk factors to prevent the progression of atherosclerosis and its complications. The other options discuss different conditions unrelated to the plaque buildup characteristic of arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis. For instance, thickening of the heart muscle is often associated with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, dilation of blood vessels pertains to conditions like aneurysms, and heart valve disease involves malfunctions of the heart valves rather than the arteries themselves. This highlights the specific nature of atherosclerosis as primarily related to the artery walls and their composition.