Fibromuscular hyperplasia is a medical condition that affects arterial function and can lead to complications. It is treated with a combination of medication and surgery. Imaging tests are used for diagnosis, and symptoms can mimic atherosclerosis. The cause is unknown, but factors such as arterial malformation, genetics, and tobacco use may contribute. Symptoms vary depending on the location of arterial dysplasia, and if left untreated, complications such as aneurysm development and impaired organ function can occur. Medications and surgery are used to treat the condition.
Fibromuscular hyperplasia, also known as fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD), is a serious medical condition that affects arterial physiology and function. Commonly affecting the renal arteries, fibromuscular hyperplasia is defined by uncontrolled cell production, known as dysplasia, which results in a thickening of the affected tissues. Subsequent arterial narrowing poses a significant risk of complications. In the absence of a cure, fibromuscular hyperplasia can be treated with a combination of medications and surgery.
The arterial constriction and hyperplastic symptoms associated with this condition can mimic the effects of atherosclerosis. Therefore, determining the exact cause of your symptoms is essential for appropriate treatment. Generally, imaging tests are used to diagnose fibromuscular hyperplasia. Arterial condition, function, and circulation are typically evaluated using ultrasound and angiogram technologies.
Fibromuscular dysplastic symptoms occur when cell reproduction within an arterial wall goes unchecked. Because cells multiply within the confines of the soft tissue, the excess cells are useless. Unneeded cells build up, thickening the tissue and forming a swelling that narrows the arterial passage, eventually compromising blood flow.
Despite the absence of a known cause for the onset of the disease, several factors can contribute to fibromuscular hyperplasia. Acquired or congenital arterial malformation that compromises the oxygen supply to the arterial walls may facilitate hyperplastic activity. A genetic link may also be possible since multiple members of a single family can develop symptoms of foot and mouth disease. Tobacco use is also often considered a contributing factor due to its effects on blood oxygen levels and arterial health.
In most cases, individuals with fibromuscular hyperplasia remain asymptomatic, meaning they show no signs of the disease. The presentation of symptoms generally depends on the location of the arterial dysplasia. Individuals with fibromuscular hyperplasia may develop localized discomfort, atrophy or loss of function, and involuntary weight loss. When arterial dysfunction resides in the extremities, impaired blood circulation can cause numbness, skin discoloration, and the affected area feels cold to the touch.
If the signs of foot and mouth disease are ignored or treatment is delayed, significant complications can occur. Impaired blood flow requires increased force to keep blood circulating, triggering an increase in blood pressure. Areas where dysplastic activity is most prominent may weaken, leading to aneurysm development. Impaired circulation can also increase the chance of a stroke and impair organ function.
Medications designed to relieve arterial constriction, reduce heart rate, and flush excess fluid from the body are usually prescribed for fibromuscular hyperplasia. Angioplasty is usually done using a balloon catheter to widen the affected artery. The presence of aneurysmal tissue may require placement of stents to prevent arterial collapse. Long-term drug therapy is usually recommended after surgery to minimize the chance of future procedures.
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