Epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment of moyamoya disease

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Vascular Medicine
• Genetics

Background:

• Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a chronic cerebrovascular occlusion disease prevalent in East Asian populations.
• It affects both pediatric and adult patients, leading to severe neurological events like stroke, headache, and epilepsy.
• The exact mechanisms of MMD are not fully understood, though genetic factors are implicated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of Moyamoya disease.
• To summarize current understanding of MMD's epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing research and previous studies on Moyamoya disease.
• Analysis of diagnostic approaches including cerebral angiography and non-invasive techniques.
• Evaluation of surgical treatment options, specifically intra- and extra-cranial revascularization.

Main Results:

• Cerebral angiography remains the gold standard for MMD diagnosis.
• Non-invasive imaging techniques are increasingly utilized for accurate MMD evaluation.
• Surgical revascularization procedures demonstrate significant benefits for MMD patients.

Conclusions:

• MMD is a significant cerebrovascular disease requiring further research into its underlying mechanisms.
• Accurate diagnosis through advanced imaging is crucial for patient management.
• Surgical interventions like revascularization are effective in improving outcomes for individuals with Moyamoya disease.