Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is an uncommon medical condition involving abnormal cell growth in artery walls. It usually develops in women but it can affect any age or gender. The symptoms of FMD vary, depending on the arteries affected (examples include migraines and blood pressure problems). Severe cases can lead to aneurysm and stroke.
Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is an uncommon medical condition that involves abnormal cell growth in the walls of arteries. Arteries are blood vessels that deliver blood from your heart to tissues in the rest of your body.
FMD can make your blood vessels narrow, bulge or develop a beaded appearance. It may affect:
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Anyone can develop FMD. But the condition is much more common in women and people designated female at birth (DFAB) in more than 90% of cases, particularly those aged 40 to 70.
Other conditions may mimic fibromuscular dysplasia, including:
Scientists aren’t sure how many people have it because in many people, it doesn’t cause symptoms or it’s discovered incidentally.
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There are two types of FMD, based on the appearance of the arteries during diagnostic tests.
Scientists don’t know what causes FMD. Some cases have been linked to:
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The signs of FMD depend on the arteries affected. Some people with mild cases might not have any symptoms at all. Others might experience symptoms caused by restricted blood flow, such as:
FMD can cause serious medical problems, such as:
Sometimes a healthcare provider detects FMD during a routine physical examination (such as hearing a bruit). The condition also may be discovered during tests for other conditions.
If a healthcare provider suspects you have fibromuscular dysplasia, they may order the following tests:
There’s no cure for FMD. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications.
Treatment for FMD varies, depending on the arteries affected, severity and symptoms. Options may include:
Because scientists don’t understand the causes of FMD, there are no strategies to prevent it.
Many people with FMD have a normal life expectancy. But rarely, an aneurysm can burst and bleed, leading to stroke, permanent nerve damage and sometimes death.
If you have FMD, you should take charge of your health with the following strategies:
Some people with FMD find it helpful to get involved with advocacy organizations and support groups. These opportunities can connect you with other people who have the same condition. They also may help raise awareness and money for FMD research.
Your healthcare provider will educate you about signs and symptoms that require immediate medical attention. This varies, depending on the arteries affected.
People with FMD should be aware of the signs and symptoms of a stroke. They include sudden:
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is an uncommon medical condition that involves abnormal cell growth in the walls of arteries. If you have signs of FMD, talk to a healthcare provider. They can offer diagnostic tests, as well as treatments to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.
Last reviewed on 03/19/2022.
Learn more about the Health Library and our editorial process.
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Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy