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Age-related fibromuscular dysplasia in the human left ventricle papillary muscles arteries

Christos E Nerantzis1,2, Nikolaos G Karakoukis3, George C Di Lernia3

  • 1Forensic Medical Service of Athens, Mikras Asias 75, 115 27, Athens, Greece. theano9@otenet.gr.

Anatomical Science International
|April 5, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) affects left ventricle papillary muscle arteries in patients aged 31-60. Lesions progress with age, potentially causing dysfunction and impacting cardiac surgery considerations.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Pathology
  • Histopathology
  • Vascular Biology

Background:

  • Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a non-atherosclerotic vascular disease.
  • Papillary muscles (PM) of the left ventricle are crucial for valve function.
  • Age-related changes in PM arteries are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To histologically characterize fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) in the tunica media (TM) of left ventricle papillary muscle (PM) arteries in patients aged 31-60.
  • To compare these findings with previously studied subjects younger than 30.
  • To assess the impact of FMD progression on PM function with increasing age.

Main Methods:

  • Histological examination of 200 healthy male left ventricle anterior papillary muscle samples.
  • Classification of FMD cases (33/200, 16.5%) into three subgroups (A, B, C) based on fibrous tissue replacement.
  • Age-stratified analysis of lesion localization and progression.

Main Results:

  • FMD was identified in 16.5% of cases within the tunica media (TM) of PM arteries.
  • Lesions were localized within the TM until age 41.
  • Increased fibrous tissue, degenerative lesions, and inflammatory infiltration were observed with advancing age, particularly after 44 and 53 years, respectively, leading to PM dysfunction.

Conclusions:

  • FMD in PM arteries shows age-dependent progression.
  • Significant fibrous tissue increase and degenerative changes occur after age 41, potentially causing PM dysfunction.
  • Findings are relevant for cardiologists and cardiac surgeons, highlighting potential PM and valve dysfunction in older patients (post-44 years).
Keywords:
Fibromuscular dysplasiaPapillary musclePapillary muscle arteriesTunica media

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