Role of inflammation in atherothrombosis

Acute coronary syndromes result from thrombosis on a disrupted atherosclerotic plaque. Plaques prone to rupture contain cellular elements and their secreted products that are characteristic of active inflammation. Multiple triggers may be involved in the activation of inflammatory response. Therapeutic strategies toward these triggers have been proposed and tested. Here the authors review the evidence for the involvement of inflammation in atherothrombosis and possible therapies for the triggers of inflammation.