A Case of Isolated Intracranial Fibromuscular Dysplasia

Abigail McDonald1

  • 1Internal Medicine, Hospital Corporation of America Healthcare in Association with the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine Graduate Medical Education Programs, Northside Hospital, St. Petersburg, USA.

Cureus
|July 28, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) can cause stroke, even when localized to a single artery like the middle cerebral artery. Early diagnosis and antiplatelet therapy are crucial for recovery and preventing future cerebrovascular events.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Vascular Medicine
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a non-atherosclerotic arterial disease affecting medium-sized arteries.
  • Intracranial involvement, though uncommon, can manifest as stenosis or aneurysms, particularly in the posterior circulation.

Observation:

  • A rare case of an adult female presenting with a left-sided stroke.
  • Angiography confirmed FMD localized to the left middle cerebral artery.
  • Systemic FMD was ruled out by comprehensive imaging.

Findings:

  • The patient experienced complete resolution of neurological deficits.
  • The localized FMD was successfully managed with antiplatelet therapy.
  • The patient was discharged in stable condition.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of thorough imaging to differentiate localized versus systemic FMD.
  • Emphasizes the role of antiplatelet therapy in preventing cerebrovascular events in patients with intracranial FMD.
  • Suggests that prompt diagnosis and management can lead to favorable outcomes in stroke secondary to FMD.

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