Abstract
Background
Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) associated with cerebrovascular diseases represents a rare etiology of stroke in adolescents. The initial symptoms of FMD lack specificity, and the clinical comprehension of cerebral vascular FMD remains inadequate, leading to potential misdiagnosis or underdiagnosis. Therefore, early diagnosis coupled with comprehensive cerebrovascular imaging holds paramount importance.
Case presentation
The present report delineates a case of acute-onset stroke-like symptoms in a 26-year-old female adult patient. Notably, the patient exhibited no pre-existing risk factors for cerebral hemopathy and was devoid of any inducing factors such as drug abuse, long-term hormone use, or neck massage. Additionally, there was no history of fever or related conditions. Acute cerebral infarction was confirmed through head MRI findings. Subsequent improved cerebral angiography revealed occlusion of the right carotid artery and beaded changes in the left carotid artery, leading to the diagnosis of muscle fiber dysplasia (FMD) followed by right arterial thrombectomy.
Conclusion
Carotid myofibrous dysplasia (FMD), some of which may present with stroke-like symptoms, typically exhibits atypical manifestations and is prone to misdiagnosis. Therefore, it is crucial to integrate the patient's overall condition, clinical symptoms, and appropriate imaging diagnosis in the early stages to expedite triage. In cases of carotid artery occlusion caused by FMD, emergency thrombectomy can be performed for prompt vascular recanalization.