Atherosclerosis Progression: From Plaque Buildup to Arterial Blockage #3313864 (License: Personal Use)

The image displays three sequential cross-sections of an artery: top panel shows normal blood flow with red blood cells moving freely; middle panel depicts early atherosclerosis with yellow lipid-rich plaque narrowing the lumen; bottom panel shows advanced disease where a ruptured plaque triggers a red thrombus, severely obstructing flow. Each stage includes directional arrows indicating reduced blood velocity due to increasing stenosis.

Used in cardiology, patient education, and health websites to explain coronary artery disease pathogenesis; matches user intent for understanding heart attack causes, prevention, or symptoms of vascular disease.