distribution of lesion
Last reviewed 01/2018
Atheroma show a predilection for particular sites. In descending order of frequency, the vessels most commonly affected are:
- abdominal aorta, especially around the ostia of branch vessels
- coronary arteries, especially within the first 6 cm
- popliteal arteries
- descending thoracic aorta
- internal carotid arteries
- circle of Willis
Uncommonly affected are vessels to the upper extremities, and mesenteric and renal arteries, except at their ostia.