Foam cells

Foam cells are cells in an atheroma derived from both macrophages and smooth muscle cells which have accumulated low density lipoproteins,LDLs, by endocytosis. The LDL has crossed the endothelial barrier and has been oxidized by reactive oxygen species produced by the endothelial cells. Foam cells can also be known as fatty like streaks and typically line the intima media of the vasculature.