Final answer:
The combining form 'ather/o-' in atherosclerosis refers to the buildup of fatty substances in arteries. Atherosclerosis involves the accumulation of plaques that constrain blood flow, potentially leading to heart attacks or strokes, and is influenced by a variety of risk factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Atherosclerosis
The combining form ather/o-, as seen in atherosclerosis, refers to the buildup of fatty substances within the walls of arteries. A critical medical condition, atherosclerosis is characterized by the accumulation of plaques, which are deposits of fats, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances, that can lead to the narrowing and hardening of arteries. This process restricts blood flow and can result in serious health consequences such as heart attacks or strokes. In detail, plaques are composed of white blood cells, cholesterol, calcified deposits, and sometimes connective tissue. These contribute to the stiffening and thickening of the artery walls, a condition that is exacerbated by factors like advanced age, genetics, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, poor nutrition, lack of physical activity, and tobacco use. Atherosclerosis is a specific type of arteriosclerosis, which is a more generalized term for artery wall hardening.
Figure 20.14 in your reference material shows how atherosclerosis can arise from such plaques and how varied they can be. The presence of these plaques is not only dangerous due to the potential obstruction they cause but also because they can lead to a reduced elasticity of the arterial walls, further risk of clots, and ultimate cardiovascular events.