Myxomatous tissue is a characteristic component of human coronary artery lesions, particularly found in restenotic lesions, consisting of a bulky accumulation of stellate-shaped cells embedded in a loose stroma.
Essentially, it's a specific type of tissue found within damaged or diseased arteries, especially after procedures like angioplasty or stent placement (restenosis). Let's break down what this means:
- Location: Primarily found in lesions within the coronary arteries (the arteries that supply blood to the heart) and often associated with restenosis (the re-narrowing of an artery after a procedure to open it up).
- Composition:
- Stellate-shaped cells: These are star-shaped cells, the precise origin (histogenesis) of which is not entirely understood.
- Loose stroma: The stellate cells are embedded within a gel-like, loose extracellular matrix. This stroma lacks the organized structure found in other types of connective tissue. The exact components of this stroma can vary, but it often contains substances like glycosaminoglycans (GAGs).
- Appearance: It appears as a bulky accumulation within the artery, contributing to the narrowing of the vessel.
Key Characteristics Summarized:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Coronary artery lesions, especially restenotic lesions |
| Cell Type | Stellate-shaped cells (of unknown histogenesis) |
| Matrix | Loose, gel-like stroma rich in glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) |
| Appearance | Bulky accumulation within the artery |
| Significance | Contributes to arterial narrowing and complications following interventions. |
Myxomatous tissue is significant because its presence contributes to the process of restenosis, leading to the recurrence of symptoms like chest pain and potentially requiring further interventions. Research continues to explore the exact mechanisms behind its formation and potential therapeutic targets.
