Which term describes the disease characterized by narrowing of the small vessels that supply the heart?

• A. Cardiomegaly
• B. Atherosclerosis
• C. CAD
• D. BBB

Answer: (B)

Narrowing of the coronary vessels is caused by atherosclerosis, the buildup of cholesterol-rich plaques inside the arterial walls. As these plaques grow, they encroach on the lumen of the coronary arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart muscle and leading to ischemia, especially with activity. This description points to atherosclerosis as the underlying process. Cardiomegaly means an enlarged heart, which is not about vessel narrowing. Coronary artery disease is the broader condition that results from such narrowing, but the specific mechanism described is atherosclerosis itself. The blood-brain barrier option is unrelated.