Which of the following is a cause of obstructive coronary artery disease?

Correct option is C

Ans: (c) Plaque buildup Sol. Plaque buildup in the coronary arteries is the most common cause of obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). This condition, known as atherosclerosis, involves the accumulation of fatty deposits (plaque) on the walls of the arteries, leading to narrowing and hardening of the arteries, which can restrict blood flow to the heart muscle and cause chest pain or heart attacks.
Explanation of each option:
· (a) Myocardial bridging: Myocardial bridging is a condition where a coronary artery runs through the heart muscle instead of resting on the surface of the heart. While it can cause temporary reduction in blood flow during systole, it is not a primary cause of obstructive CAD.
· (b) Coronary vasospasm: Coronary vasospasm refers to the temporary narrowing of a coronary artery due to spasm, which can lead to chest pain or a heart attack, but it does not cause persistent obstruction of the coronary arteries as plaque buildup does.
· (c) Plaque buildup: Correct answer. Plaque buildup, or atherosclerosis, is the primary cause of obstructive coronary artery disease. Over time, the plaque can grow large enough to significantly narrow or even completely block the artery, reducing blood flow to the heart.
· (d) Endothelial dysfunction: Endothelial dysfunction refers to the impaired functioning of the endothelium (the inner lining of blood vessels), which can contribute to atherosclerosis. However, it is a contributing factor, not a direct cause of obstructive CAD by itself.