[Imaging Moya-Moya disease]

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Radiology
• Vascular Medicine

Context:

• Moya-Moya disease is a rare, progressive arterial occlusive condition affecting cerebrovascular circulation.
• It impacts both pediatric and adult populations, potentially causing stroke and intracranial hemorrhage.
• Effective management relies heavily on accurate diagnosis, treatment selection, and ongoing monitoring.

Purpose:

• To review the utility, efficiency, and recent advancements of various imaging modalities in managing Moya-Moya disease.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of imaging's role throughout the disease continuum.

Summary:

• Catheter angiography is the gold standard for diagnosis, while nuclear medicine excels in hemodynamic assessment.
• Less invasive techniques like conventional MRI, MR angiography, and functional/metabolic MR studies are increasingly vital.
• CT scans and Doppler sonography also contribute to assessing disease severity and treatment efficacy.

Impact:

• Highlights the critical role of advanced imaging in optimizing patient outcomes for Moya-Moya disease.
• Informs clinicians on selecting appropriate imaging tools for diagnosis, treatment planning, and follow-up.
• Emphasizes the evolution towards less invasive yet highly effective imaging strategies.