Monckeberg medial sclerosis is characterized by calcific deposits in which layer of the vessel wall?

Monckeberg medial sclerosis is characterized by calcific deposits in which layer of the vessel wall?

• A. Tunica Adventitia
• B. Tunica Intima
• C. Endothelium
• D. Tunica Media

Answer: (D)

Monckeberg medial sclerosis is the calcification of the tunica media of medium-sized arteries. The calcium deposits lie within the medial layer, stiffening the vessel wall while usually preserving the intima and maintaining the lumen. This distinguishes it from atherosclerosis, where the intima develops lipid-rich plaques that narrow the lumen. Medial calcification often appears as radiopaque, “pipestem” arteries and is seen more in older individuals and in conditions like diabetes or chronic kidney disease. The endothelium and adventitia are not the primary sites of these calcifications.

Monckeberg medial sclerosis is the calcification of the tunica media of medium-sized arteries. The calcium deposits lie within the medial layer, stiffening the vessel wall while usually preserving the intima and maintaining the lumen. This distinguishes it from atherosclerosis, where the intima develops lipid-rich plaques that narrow the lumen. Medial calcification often appears as radiopaque, “pipestem” arteries and is seen more in older individuals and in conditions like diabetes or chronic kidney disease. The endothelium and adventitia are not the primary sites of these calcifications.