The relationship between arteriosclerosis and the wave line of aorta

The wave line is a structure that is frequently observed in aorta. Grossly this structure (wave line), measuring 0.3-0.5 cm in width and 5-10 cm in length, runs longitudinally or spirally along the long axis of the aorta. The distribution and the relation with arteriosclerotic plaque of wave line were studied. The wave line had three predilection sites: A) the wave line running down from closure of Botallo duct to ostium of 6-8th intercostal artery, B) the wave line between ostium of both renal arteries, C) the wave line running down from lumbar artery to iliac arteries. The wave line observed in the aortae of neonates gradually increased with age. Its frequency is about 80-100% in the second and the third decades. The association of arteriosclerosis with the wave line was frequently observed, especially on "C" region. Fifty-five percent of arteriosclerotic plaques in the fourth decade corresponded with the wave line.