How are advanced atherosclerotic lesions?

Atherosclerotic plaque Macroscopy: Lenticular lesion 0.5-3 cm in diameter, smooth, yellowish surface, becoming irregular and grayish as size increases Microscopy: Center made up of "foamy" cells and necrosis rich in cholesterol crystals located in an extracellular position ("lipid slurry" = atheroma) Peripheral fibrosis gradually densifying by separating the central necrosis from the endothelium and dissociating the media in the deeper areas. The atherosclerotic lesions that form will evolve over time and gradually spread: the plaques can converge and create a "paved aorta" appearance. During its evolution, the plaque can calcify, i.e. become impregnated with calcareous salts. The plaques can turn into "eggshells" that make the arterial wall rigid (visible on X-rays)