Figure 4

Endomyoelastofibrosis of the endocardium. Thickening of the endocardium is considered consequent to intracavitary thrombi organization. The latter is a relatively rare event. The majority of endocardial thickening is due to the formation of smooth muscle cell bundles [A] with hyperelastosis [B] ending in fibrous replacement [C]. A process similar to that shown in the early pathogenesis of an atherosclerotic plaque, to keep in mind in relation to antithrombotic therapy.