Cell
foam cell
[ fohm sel ]
Subclass of:
macrophage
Definitions related to foam cells:
  • A type of macrophage that ingests low-density lipoproteins found in fatty deposits on blood vessel walls, resulting in a foamy appearance.
    NCI
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • Macrophage located in wall of blood vessel and which contains lipid.
    Foundational Model of Anatomy
    University of Washington, 2017
  • Lipid-laden cells, named for their foamy appearance under the microscope. As foam cells build up on the inside of blood vessel walls, they form a plaque that can block blood flow.
    Harvard Dictionary of Health Terms
    Harvard Medical Publishing, 2011
  • Lipid-laden macrophages originating from monocytes or from smooth muscle cells.
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
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This content should not be used in place of medically-reviewed decision support reference material or professional medical advice. Some terms may have alternate or updated definitions not reflected in this set. The definitions on this page should not be considered complete or up to date.