Is atherosclerosis reversible?

In this review, the author recapitulates the mechanisms involved in the development of atherosclerotic plaques. The relationship of high plasma cholesterol and the per cent of caloric intake from saturated fat is noted. Can intervention on risk factors prevent or reverse atherosclerosis? In animal studies, regression of atherosclerotic lesions has been achieved when dietary factors were manipulated. Recent studies in man have also pointed to the effectiveness of reducing cholesterol and cholesteryl esters in atherosclerotic plaques.