Summary about Disease
Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a condition that causes narrowing (stenosis), widening (aneurysm), or tearing (dissection) in the walls of medium-sized arteries in the body. While FMD can affect any artery, it most commonly affects the arteries leading to the kidneys (renal arteries) and the brain (carotid and vertebral arteries). The cause of FMD is unknown, and it is not related to atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries). Many people with FMD have no symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they vary depending on which arteries are affected. FMD can lead to serious complications such as high blood pressure, stroke, and kidney problems.
Symptoms
Many individuals with FMD experience no symptoms. When symptoms do arise, they vary depending on the artery affected.
Renal Artery FMD: High blood pressure (difficult to control), flank pain.
Carotid or Vertebral Artery FMD: Headache, pulsatile tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears), dizziness, neck pain, transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke, vision changes, cognitive impairment.
Other Arteries: Less common, symptoms may include abdominal pain after eating (if mesenteric arteries are affected), or leg pain with exercise (if iliac arteries are affected).
Causes
The exact cause of FMD is unknown. Research suggests a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors may contribute. It is not caused by lifestyle choices such as diet or smoking (though smoking can worsen the condition).
Medicine Used
There is no specific cure for FMD, but medications are used to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Antiplatelet medications: Aspirin or clopidogrel (Plavix) to prevent blood clots, reducing the risk of stroke or heart attack.
Antihypertensive medications: Medications to control high blood pressure such as ACE inhibitors, ARBs, beta-blockers, or diuretics.
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers for headaches or other pain.
Is Communicable
No, fibromuscular dysplasia is not a communicable disease. It cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
There are no specific precautions that can prevent FMD as the cause is unknown. However, managing risk factors can help prevent complications.
Control blood pressure: Taking medications as prescribed and following a healthy lifestyle.
Avoid smoking: Smoking can worsen FMD and increase the risk of complications.
Regular follow-up: Regular check-ups with a doctor to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as needed.
Be aware of symptoms: Promptly report any new or worsening symptoms to a doctor.
How long does an outbreak last?
FMD isn't an "outbreak" type of disease. It is a chronic condition. Symptoms can be present continuously or intermittently, and the management of symptoms is often ongoing. The duration of symptoms depends on the severity of the condition and how well it is managed with treatment.
How is it diagnosed?
FMD is diagnosed through imaging tests that visualize the arteries.
Duplex Ultrasound: A noninvasive test that uses sound waves to create images of the arteries.
CT Angiography (CTA): Uses X-rays and a contrast dye to create detailed images of the arteries.
Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA): Uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create images of the arteries.
Conventional Angiography (Arteriography): An invasive procedure where a catheter is inserted into an artery and contrast dye is injected. This is considered the gold standard for diagnosis. A doctor will also review medical history and perform a physical examination.
Timeline of Symptoms
The onset and progression of symptoms in FMD are highly variable. Some people may have no symptoms at all and only discover the condition incidentally. Others may experience a gradual onset of symptoms over months or years. In some cases, symptoms can appear suddenly, such as with a stroke or kidney infarction. There is no typical timeline. The symptoms manifest when the arteries are significantly affected or when complications arise.
Important Considerations
Early diagnosis is important: To manage the condition and prevent complications.
Lifelong monitoring is often needed: To monitor for disease progression and adjust treatment.
FMD can affect multiple arteries: So comprehensive evaluation is crucial.
Women are more commonly affected than men.
Research is ongoing: To better understand the cause of FMD and develop new treatments.
Consider seeing a specialist: Vascular medicine specialist or nephrologist.