Selected as an outstanding book in vascular surgery by members of the Society for Vascular Surgery.* This unique new text describes the current understanding of the etiology and pathogenesis of human atherosclerosis. It also details the methods for quantitating and characterizing both experimental and clinical lesions, and describes the methods for preparing available animal models. Providing an in-depth review of each of these topics, the text organizes the information in one volume for the convenience of the reader. The text is divided into two sections. First is a description of the cell biology, biochemistry and pharmacology of normal vessels and of atherosclerotic human lesions, with details of the methods to accurately characterize and quantitate the disease. Secondly, it presents a description of the methods for preparing the available experimental animal models, including a discussion of the distribution and pathological characteristics of the lesions. It also includes comparisons of human atherosclerosis and experimental animal models. Intended to provide a basis for expediting future research in this priority health care area, this text compiles the available information for those who treat patients with atherosclerosis or who are involved in atherosclerosis research. It is of particular interest to students, physicians, and academic and commercial researchers.