Fatty streak formation involves platelets attaching to the endothelium and foamy macrophages ingesting lipids.

Complicated lesions involve thrombus formation and thinning of the fibrous cap.

Fibrous plaques do not involve any lipid accumulation.

Fatty streaks result in immediate thrombus formation.

A collagen cap, fibroblast activity, and lipid pool development characterize fibrous plaque formation.

Migration of smooth muscle cells into the intima occurs during the fatty streak stage.