Arteriosclerosis: rethinking the current classification

Area of Science:

• Vascular pathology
• Medical terminology
• Arterial diseases

Background:

• Arteriosclerosis is a major cause of mortality in industrialized nations.
• Current classification includes atherosclerosis, Mönckeberg medial calcific sclerosis, and arteriolosclerosis.
• Existing terminology for arteriosclerosis is problematic and often misused.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the history and current classification of arteriosclerosis.
• To identify issues with the existing classification system.
• To discuss newly identified arterial lesions not currently classified.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on arteriosclerosis classification.
• Analysis of the current classification's naming conventions and accuracy.
• Identification of omissions in the current classification.

Main Results:

• The current arteriosclerosis classification has inconsistent naming.
• Terms used do not always accurately describe the lesions.
• Important arterial lesions are missing from the current classification.
• Arteriosclerosis and atherosclerosis are frequently used interchangeably despite distinct meanings.

Conclusions:

• A new, more inclusive classification of arteriosclerotic lesions is needed.
• The revised classification should accurately reflect lesion pathology.
• Improved terminology will enhance understanding and treatment of vascular diseases.