Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a vascular disorder that affects the walls of medium-sized arteries. Abnormal cells develop in the arteries causing them to narrow, weaken, or appear beaded.
At the UPMC Division of Vascular Surgery, our experts take a team approach to diagnose FMD quickly and accurately. Then, we'll develop a treatment plan based on your personal needs.
Request an appointment online, call 1-855-876-2484 (UPMC-HVI), or email us.
FMD is a vascular disorder.
It occurs when abnormal cells develop in the walls of medium-sized arteries, causing them to:
FMD can happen in any artery but most commonly affects the:
In most cases, FMD occurs in more than one artery.
FMD can limit blood flow and cause weak spots or tears in the arteries. Symptoms vary based on which arteries are affected.
FMD can happen to anyone but is most common in women ages 25-50.
Doctors don't know exactly what causes FMD, but things that might play a role include:
Some people with FMD have no symptoms.
Even without symptoms, FMD can lead to serious, potentially life-threatening complications. It can cause disease of the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys and brain.
Some complications of FMD include:
For an appointment with a UPMC vascular surgeon, complete an appointment request form or call 1-855-876-2484 (UPMC-HVI).
Symptoms of FMD vary, based on which arteries are affected. In many cases, people with FMD have no symptoms.
Kidney (renal) artery symptoms
Abdominal (mesenteric) artery symptoms
Arm and leg (peripheral) artery symptoms
Heart (coronary) artery symptoms
In some cases, doctors can diagnose FMD after:
To diagnose FMD, your UPMC vascular surgeon may use one or several of the following imaging tests:
For an appointment with a UPMC vascular surgeon, complete an appointment request form or call 1-855-876-2484 (UPMC-HVI).
Doctors can treat FMD with medicine. In some cases, you may need surgery or other procedures.
Your UPMC vascular surgeon will create a treatment plan based on your specific needs.
FMD treatment may include:
For an appointment with a UPMC vascular surgeon, complete an appointment request form or call 1-855-876-2484 (UPMC-HVI).