Fibromuscular Dysplasia
Fibromuscular Dysplasia (FMD) is a rare blood vessel disorder in which some of the strong, flexible cells of arteries are replaced with cells that are more fibrous. Fibrous cells are less strong and also less flexible. This change in composition of the arteries leads them to becoming stiffer and more prone to damage.
Most cases of FMD affect the carotid and renal arteries. The carotid arteries are in the neck and connect the heart and the brain. The renal arteries are the blood vessels that carry blood from the aorta to the kidneys. Fibromuscular dysplasia can also affect the arteries to the intestines (the mesenteric arteries), the arteries to the legs or arms, and arteries in other parts of the body, although this is less common. Many times, arteries in more than one location are affected by FMD. FMD can lead to high blood pressure, aortic stenosis, aneurysm and sometimes aortic dissection.
Causes of Fibromuscular Dysplasia
It is still not clear what causes FMD. However, certain conditions, traits or habits may raise your risk. These conditions are known as risk factors.
Non-Modifiable Risk Factors: These factors are irreversible and cannot be changed. The more of these risk factors you have, the greater your chance of developing this condition. Family history/genetics is a non-modifiable risk factor for fibromuscular dysplasia.
Modifiable Risk Factors: These factors can be modified, treated or controlled through medications or lifestyle changes. An excessive amount of stress is a modifiable risk factor for fibromuscular dysplasia.
Other conditions that contribute to FMD:
- Injury to the artery walls
- Loss of oxygen supply to the blood vessel wall
Symptoms of Fibromuscular Dysplasia
Some people with FMD do not have any symptoms, but symptoms can occur if the stenosis restricts blood flow through the affected artery. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Headaches
- Neck pain
- Lightheadedness
- Bruit noise
- Poor kidney function
- Abdominal pain
- Unexplained weight loss
Diagnosis of Fibromuscular Dysplasia
Doctors may use a series of tests to diagnose FMD. Your doctor may recommend one or more of the following diagnostic tests:
- X-rays
- Echocardiogram (ECHO)
- Computed tomography (CT scan)
- Ultrasound
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Angiogram
Treatment of Fibromuscular Dysplasia
There are several treatments available for patients with FMD. Your doctor will talk to you about the type of treatment that is best for you, based on the type of FMD you have, how severe it is, and your overall health. Treatment options for include lifestyle changes, medications, and medical and surgical procedures.
Lifestyle Changes
- Manage your stress.
- Make and keep appointments to see your doctor for routine check-ups and follow-up tests.
Medications
- ACE inhibitors will help blood vessels relax and open up, leading to a lower blood pressure.
- Angiotensin II receptor blockers will help blood vessels open up, leading to a lower blood pressure.
- Beta blockers will help reduce your blood pressure.