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Published on: August 11, 2023
An Interesting Case of Moyamoya Disease, a Rare Cause of Transient Ischemic Attacks
Amit Sapra1, Priyanka Bhandari1, Rebecca Dix1
1Family Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, USA.
Abstract:
Moyamoya disease is a rare, chronic, idiopathic progressive disease characterized by irreversible vascular occlusion of the vessels of the Circle of Willis. The disease was initially considered to be limited to the East Asian population, but now the disease is being reported all over the globe in people of multiple ethnicities. It is crucial that clinicians are aware of the disease and its presentation to prevent under-recognition of the condition. We describe the case of a 44-year-old Caucasian female with a history of hypertension, depression, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and morbid obesity diagnosed with Moyamoya disease after she presented to the emergency department with recurrent stroke-like symptoms.
Insights
Moyamoya disease, a rare progressive vascular condition, is increasingly reported globally across diverse ethnicities. This case highlights its presentation in a Caucasian female with recurrent stroke-like symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Vascular Neurology
- Rare Diseases
Background:
- Moyamoya disease is a rare, progressive cerebrovascular disorder affecting the Circle of Willis.
- Initially thought to be endemic to East Asian populations, it is now recognized worldwide.
- Early diagnosis and awareness are crucial for managing this idiopathic condition.
Observation:
- A 44-year-old Caucasian female presented with recurrent stroke-like symptoms.
- Her medical history included hypertension, depression, GERD, and morbid obesity.
- These symptoms led to her diagnosis of Moyamoya disease.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with Moyamoya disease, a condition causing irreversible vascular occlusion.
- Her presentation with transient ischemic attacks underscores the varied clinical manifestations.
- This case emphasizes the importance of considering Moyamoya disease in non-Asian populations.
Implications:
- Clinicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for Moyamoya disease in diverse ethnic groups.
- Increased global reporting necessitates broader awareness and diagnostic preparedness.
- Prompt recognition can lead to timely intervention and improved patient outcomes.
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