Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a disease characterized by the abnormal development or growth of cells in the walls of arteries. This can lead to narrowing or bulging of the affected blood vessels.
Understanding Fibromuscular Dysplasia
What Happens in FMD?
FMD involves changes in the artery walls that can cause:
- Narrowing (Stenosis): The artery becomes constricted, reducing blood flow.
- Bulging (Aneurysm): The artery wall weakens and swells outward.
- Tears (Dissections): The layers of the artery wall separate, potentially causing a blockage or leakage.
Which Arteries are Typically Affected?
According to the provided reference, FMD commonly affects:
- Carotid Arteries: These arteries in the neck supply blood to the brain.
- Arteries Within the Brain: Affecting blood supply directly to the brain.
- Kidney Arteries: Arteries supplying the kidneys can also be impacted.
Key Aspects of FMD:
- Cell Growth Issue: FMD is fundamentally a problem of abnormal cellular development in the artery walls.
- Vascular Changes: The changes lead to compromised blood flow.
- Variable Presentation: The impact and affected areas vary between individuals.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Abnormal cell growth in artery walls causing narrowing or bulging. |
| Common Sites | Carotid arteries, arteries within the brain, and kidney arteries. |
| Consequences | Reduced blood flow, aneurysms, tears in artery walls. |
FMD is a vascular disease that impacts how blood flows through the arteries by altering their structure.
