Fibromuscular Dysplasia Treatment in Delhi, India

Fibromuscular dysplasia is a rare medical condition that involves abnormal cell growth inside the arteries. This leads to the arteries becoming narrower, decreasing blood flow to the rest of the body.

Associated Anatomy of Fibromuscular Dysplasia

Arteries in the kidney, brain, legs, arms, and abdomen.

Fibromuscular Dysplasia Causes

While the exact cause of fibromuscular dysplasia is unknown, studies suggest that the following factors may contribute to the development of the condition.

• Genetics - Studies suggest that 10% of fibromuscular dysplasia cases occur in family members. However, the individual may develop fibromuscular dysplasia in different arteries than their relatives.
• Hormones - Research suggests that premenopausal women are three to four times more likely to develop fibromuscular dysplasia than men. This suggests that sex hormones may play a role in this condition. More studies need to be conducted to confirm this.
• Abnormal arteries - Lack of oxygen and abnormal location of the arteries may increase one’s risk of developing the condition.

Fibromuscular Dysplasia Symptoms

Many individuals with fibromuscular dysplasia may not develop symptoms at all. However, when symptoms do develop, they depend on the location of the arteries.

Symptoms of fibromuscular dysplasia in the renal arteries are:

• High blood pressure
• Irregular kidney functioning
• Shrinkage of the kidney

Symptoms of fibromuscular dysplasia in the carotid (brain) arteries are:

• Neck pain
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Ringing in the ears
• Blurry vision
• Stroke

Symptoms of fibromuscular dysplasia in the mesenteric (abdomen) arteries are:

• Abdominal pain
• Unexplained and rapid weight loss

Symptoms of fibromuscular dysplasia in the arms and legs are:

• Pain while walking/running
• Numbness
• Change in colour of the affected limbs.

Stage of Fibromuscular Dysplasia

While there are no exact stages of fibromuscular dysplasia, watch out for the following signs that are indicative of the condition.

• Aneurysm or dissection in the affected arteries
• Headache, severe neck and abdominal pain
• Weakness in arms and legs
• Changes in vision, speech, and consciousness.

Fibromuscular Dysplasia Diagnosis

Your doctor will conduct a thorough vascular examination and take your medical history to understand your health better. For a definitive diagnosis, your doctor may ask you to go through one of the following imaging tests:

Duplex Ultrasound

This is a non-invasive imaging test where high-frequency waves are used to create detailed images of your arteries.

Magnetic Resonance Angiography

This test uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the arteries and organs within your body.

Fibromuscular Dysplasia Treatment

Currently, there is no cure for fibromuscular dysplasia. However, one can opt for treatments that help manage symptoms and prevent further health complications. If you don’t need treatment currently, your doctor may recommend keeping an eye on your condition. You can opt for the following treatments.

Medications

Individuals with fibromuscular dysplasia and hypertension are given beta-blockers or angiotensin â…¡ receptor blockers to relax their blood vessels and block adrenaline.

Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty

This is a procedure where a catheter with a balloon is threaded into the narrowed artery to keep it wide open and increase blood flow.

Risk Factors of Fibromuscular Dysplasia

The following factors increase one’s likelihood of developing fibromuscular dysplasia.

• Age - Premenopausal women under 50 years are at a higher risk of developing it than men.
• Smoking - Studies suggest that people who smoke are more likely to develop it than non-smokers. Individuals who smoke and have already been diagnosed with this condition have a higher risk of developing high-risk medical conditions.

Possible Complications of Fibromuscular Dysplasia

An individual with fibromuscular dysplasia may develop a wide range of possible health complications. These include high blood pressure, tears in the arterial walls, and aneurysm (bulge). These can further lead to further arterial damage, heart disease, heart failure, or an increased risk of developing a mini-stroke or stroke.

Fibromuscular Dysplasia Preventions

Primary Prevention

Since the exact cause behind fibromuscular dysplasia has not yet been determined, there are no foolproof strategies to prevent the condition. However, you can follow these tips to decrease your risk of developing the condition.

• Avoid or limit smoking or the use of tobacco.
• Eat a balanced and healthy diet.
• Engage in physical exercise regularly.

Secondary Prevention

Individuals diagnosed with fibromuscular dysplasia can follow these to reduce the risk of recurrence of the condition:

• Quit using tobacco products.
• Check your blood pressure daily.
• Take the medications as per your doctor’s instructions.
• Go for imaging tests and follow-up appointments annually to keep track of the condition.

Epidemiology of Fibromuscular Dysplasia

Currently, research studies suggest that:

• It is four times more common in premenopausal women than men.
• It is commonly diagnosed in young adults.
• The prevalence of fibromuscular dysplasia is common in renal arteries and carotid arteries.

Expected Prognosis of Fibromuscular Dysplasia

People diagnosed with fibromuscular dysplasia have a normal life expectancy and live well into their 80s and 90s. In rare cases, it may result in a stroke. Consult your doctor (Cardiologist) for the appropriate treatments that will help you manage your symptoms.

Natural Progression of Fibromuscular Dysplasia

Studies suggest that fibromuscular dysplasia of the renal arteries may lead to further narrowing of the renal arteries (severe stenosis) and complete blockage of blood flow to the kidneys (renal occlusion). Due to limited studies, it is difficult to estimate the rate and severity of the progression.

Pathophysiology of Fibromuscular Dysplasia

Fibromuscular dysplasia is a medical condition characterised by abnormal cell growth inside the arteries. While it is commonly seen in renal and carotid arteries, this condition can affect any artery in your body. Narrowing of the arteries may result in an aneurysm (bulging of the artery), haemorrhage, and thrombosis (blood clots).