What is Fibromuscular Dysplasia (FMD)?
Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a non-inflammatory, non-atherosclerotic vascular disease that causes abnormal cell growth in the artery walls, leading to narrowing (stenosis), bulges (aneurysms), or tears (dissections).
FMD is a rare and underdiagnosed disease that can occur at any age, although 90% of cases occur in women aged 40 to 60 without traditional cardiovascular risk factors.
Commonly, the lesions are located in the renal and carotid arteries, although they can appear anywhere in the body. The cause and prevalence are unknown.
The most frequent symptoms are headaches, pulsatile tinnitus, high blood pressure, strokes, claudication when walking, and abdominal pain.
Diagnostic tests for FMD
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Doppler Ultrasound: A non-invasive and painless ultrasound technique.
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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): A non-invasive technology that uses magnets to visualize the inside of your body without radiation.
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CT Angiography (CTA): Computed tomography angiography uses a contrast injection to help diagnose blood vessel diseases. The classic image of the arteries in FMD is a "string of beads".
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MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography): Magnetic resonance angiography uses a contrast injection and a magnetic field to evaluate blood vessels.
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Arteriography: An invasive technique that introduces a small catheter into the artery through the groin, elbow, or wrist, reaching the area to be studied: carotid, coronary, or renal arteries.
Etiology
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The etiology of fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) remains unknown; some hypotheses indicate the role of female hormones and mechanical factors.
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Most researchers consider that genetics play an important role in the development of FMD.
Treatment
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Treatment is personalized and initially conservative, except in high-risk cases.
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Treatment for FMD depends on the symptoms and the location of the lesions.
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Medical treatment usually involves analgesics, antihypertensives, and antiplatelet agents (ASA 80-100mg/day).
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In cases of severe arterial stenosis or risk of aneurysm rupture, surgical treatments are used.
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Control of classic cardiovascular risk factors: healthy diet and physical exercise.
Signs to be alert for
Intense headache
These are severe recurrent or chronic migraines, frequent in FMD.
Ear noises
It is called tinnitus. It is like hearing your heartbeat inside your ear or head.
Hypertensive crises
Severe hypertensive crises can occur even in normotensive or hypotensive individuals.
Living with the disease
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Starting a new life after a SCAD diagnosis is a challenge, but you are not alone; with patience and support, you will succeed. It is a new stage where the most important thing is to learn to take care of yourself calmly. We give you some tips so you can feel safe.
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Listen to your body:
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If you feel tired, stop. Do not force yourself to do more.
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Exercise:
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Ask your doctor what physical exercises you can do without damaging your arteries. It is important to get physical exercise; keep moving.
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Your mind matters:
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It is normal to be afraid. Sharing how you feel will take a great weight off your shoulders.
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