Atherosclerosis is a disease characterized by the buildup of plaque inside the arteries. [1] Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. Coronary artery disease (CAD), is atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries. [2] The cause of atherosclerosis is not known. Smoking, diet, physical activity, and genes influence the risk of atherosclerosis. [1] Atherogenic infections have been associated with atherosclerosis in animals. [3]