Isolated Catatonia as a Rare Initial Manifestation of Moyamoya Disease

Ouafae El Hayani1, Bnouhanna Wadii2, Mounia Rahmani3

  • 1Neurology, Specialty Hospital, Ibn Sina University Hospital Center, Mohammed V University, Rabat, MAR.

Cureus
|May 7, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Moyamoya disease (MMD), a rare cerebrovascular disorder, can present with unusual psychiatric symptoms like catatonia. This case highlights the importance of neuroimaging in diagnosing MMD when catatonia is the primary symptom.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Psychiatry
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a rare cerebrovascular disorder causing progressive stenosis of intracranial arteries.
  • It leads to abnormal collateral vessel formation and can manifest with ischemic, hemorrhagic, or epileptic symptoms.
  • Psychiatric symptoms are uncommon and can be misdiagnosed as primary psychiatric disorders.

Observation:

  • A rare case of Moyamoya disease presenting with isolated catatonia is reported.
  • The patient was diagnosed with MMD via neuroimaging after admission for catatonia.
  • This presentation is atypical for MMD, which usually involves neurological deficits.

Findings:

  • Neuroimaging confirmed Moyamoya disease in a patient with isolated catatonia.
  • The study explores potential mechanisms linking MMD and catatonia.
  • Radiological findings characteristic of MMD were observed.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the need for considering MMD in patients with unexplained catatonia.
  • Early diagnosis through neuroimaging is crucial for appropriate management.
  • Recognizing atypical MMD presentations can improve patient outcomes and prevent misdiagnosis.