Definition of Microangiopathy

Microangiopathy: Angiopathy means disease of the blood vessels (arteries, veins, and capillaries). There are two types of angiopathy: macroangiopathy and microangiopathy. With macroangiopathy, fat and blood clots build up in the large blood vessels, stick to the vessel walls, and block the flow of blood. With microangiopathy, the walls of very small blood vessels (capillaries) become so thick and weak that they bleed, leak protein, and slow the flow of blood. For example, diabetics may develop microangiopathy with thickening of capillaries in many areas including the eye.

The prefix "micro-" is derived from the Greek "mikros" meaning small. It diminishes whatever it precedes.

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