What is hyaline arteriosclerosis?

Hyaline arteriosclerosis is a pathological process that involves thickening and narrowing of arteriole walls due to accumulation of hyaline material, which is a homogenous, glassy pink substance that fills the arteriolar walls. This process happens due to chronic hypertension or ageing and results in decreased arterial compliance and perfusion to organs.

Hyaline arteriosclerosis can lead to ischemic organ damage and plays a role in the pathogenesis of conditions such as diabetic nephropathy, hypertensive kidney disease, and Alzheimer's disease. It is frequently seen microscopically in the walls of small blood vessels in the kidney, in the brain, and in the retina. Some of the clinical manifestations of hyaline arteriosclerosis include hypertension, proteinuria, and renal dysfunction.

It can be diagnosed through microscopy using special stains that highlights the hyaline deposits. Treatments for hyaline arteriosclerosis involve controlling underlying hypertension and addressing the underlying conditions that lead to the development of this condition. Proper blood pressure management and glycemic control may prevent the onset and progression of hyaline arteriosclerosis.