Therapy for Renal Artery Stenosis: A Call for Change

CLINICAL IMPACT

We present a brief case description of a patient who benefitted from stenting in ARAS and provide a comprehensive review of ARAS; its prevalence, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis and treatment. We review the evidence for and against stenting in ARAS as well as consensus guidelines for stenting. Our review is valuable as we argue that stenting in ARAS is underutilized and the randomized control data for stenting in those patients who may benefit most is lacking. Our review will provide an important perspective for clinicians faced with decisions of how to treat ARAS.

Doppler Ultrasound of the Renal Vasculature

Ultrasound is the first-line imaging modality used in patients with suspected renovascular disease. Common indications include renovascular hypertension and unexplained renal dysfunction. We review the ultrasound imaging findings of various pathologies involving the renal vessels, including the renal arteries (atherosclerotic stenosis, fibromuscular dysplasia, dissection, arteriovenous fistula, and aneurysm) and veins (tumor and bland thrombus as well as vascular compression syndromes). The current role of renal artery stent placement for atherosclerotic stenosis is also discussed.

Behcet's disease presenting as malignant hypertension induced by renovascular hypertension

Hypertension is an uncommon manifestation of Behcet's disease, which is also an uncommon cause of renovascular hypertension. We herein report a case of malignant hypertension associated with unilateral renal artery stenosis due to vascular Behcet's disease. A 19-year-old man, who had no significant medical history, was referred to ophthalmology at our hospital because he was suspected to have uveitis and Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada syndrome. In addition to poor eyesight, he had been aware of a fever, loss of appetite, and weight loss for a month. He was admitted with markedly elevated blood pressure (222/140 mmHg), hypertensive retinopathy, and acute kidney injury, who was diagnosed with malignant hypertension. Laboratory findings showed high plasma renin activity and plasma aldosterone concentration, hypokalemia, and elevated inflammatory response. Computed tomography showed an atrophic right kidney and a compensatorily enlarged left kidney. Renal computed tomography angiography revealed severe and diffuse stenosis of the right renal artery, and stenosis of the ostium of celiac artery. Since he was suspected to have uveitis and his inflammatory responses were elevated on admission, we listed Behcet's disease as a differential diagnosis. Medical interview and examination focusing on Behcet's disease revealed that the patient had recurrent oral aphthous lesions and folliculitis, and a positive pathergy test, which led to the patient being diagnosed with vascular Behcet's disease. After admission, his blood pressure was well controlled with multiple antihypertensive drugs including an angiotensin receptor/neprilysin inhibitor, and his oral aphthous lesions and skin lesion were improved with colchicine. When young men who are at a higher risk for vascular Behcet's disease show renovascular hypertension with an elevated inflammatory reaction, vascular Behcet's disease should be considered as a differential diagnosis.

Evidence for routine brain-to-pelvis imaging and antiplatelet therapy in patients diagnosed with fibromuscular dysplasia

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a disease of the musculature of arterial walls leading to stenoses, aneurysms, and dissections. The purpose of this report was to summarize the evidence for (1) one-time routine imaging from brain-to-pelvis and (2) lifelong antiplatelet therapy, for example, aspirin, for patients diagnosed with FMD as suggested by an international consensus report from 2019. PubMed was systematically searched, and the evidence providing a basis for the current consensus points, as well as articles published since, were reviewed. In four registries evaluating patients with FMD, the prevalence of multivessel involvement, aneurysms, and dissections was reported to be 43.5%-66.3%, 21.6%-30.6%, and 5.6%-28.1%, respectively. Any antiplatelet drug was used in 72.9% of patients, and aspirin was prescribed in up to 70.2% of patients. Based on the high prevalence of vascular manifestations, their associated morbidity, and the potential for endovascular or surgical intervention, the suggestion of one-time brain-to-pelvis screening with computed tomography angiography or magnetic resonance angiography is well supported. Contrarily, the evidence to support the consensus statement of lifelong antiplatelet therapy to all patients in the absence of contraindications is more uncertain since a beneficial effect has not been demonstrated specifically in patients with fibromuscular dysplasia. Therefore, until the efficacy and safety of primary thromboprophylaxis have been demonstrated in this patient group specifically, it may be equally appropriate to only use antiplatelet agents in patients with a clear indication after individual evaluation according to risk factors for thrombotic and thromboembolic complications.

Fibromuscular dysplasia of subclavian artery: A case report and mini-review

A case of a 40-year-old male patient with a right subclavian artery aneurysm of fibromuscular dysplasia origin is reported. The patient presented with thoracic outlet-like symptoms and underwent aneurysm resection. Microscopic examination revealed intimal and medial fibroplasia. Additional cases of fibromuscular dysplasia at this rare location are reviewed, indicating a male and right-sided predominance. The most frequent clinicopathological manifestation was an aneurysm, with the histopathological pattern characterized by medial fibroplasia. Treatment modalities included the use of either graft prosthesis or end-to-end anastomosis.

Management of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy: a Position Statement of the European Society of Hypertension Working Group 'Hypertension in Women'

Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDP), remain the leading cause of adverse maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes. Epidemiological factors, comorbidities, assisted reproduction techniques, placental disorders, and genetic predisposition determine the burden of the disease. The pathophysiological substrate and the clinical presentation of HDP are multifarious. The latter and the lack of well designed clinical trials in the field explain the absence of consensus on disease management among relevant international societies. Thus, the usual clinical management of HDP is largely empirical. The current position statement of the Working Group 'Hypertension in Women' of the European Society of Hypertension (ESH) aims to employ the current evidence for the management of HDP, discuss the recommendations made in the 2023 ESH guidelines for the management of hypertension, and shed light on controversial issues in the field to stimulate future research.

From Atherosclerosis to Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection: Defining a Clinical and Genetic Risk Spectrum for Myocardial Infarction

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) has been increasingly recognized as a significant cause of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in young and middle-aged women and arises through mechanisms independent of atherosclerosis. SCAD has a multifactorial etiology that includes environmental, individual, and genetic factors distinct from those typically associated with coronary artery disease. Here, we summarize the current understanding of the genetic factors contributing to the development of SCAD and highlight those factors which differentiate SCAD from atherosclerotic coronary artery disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies have revealed several associated variants with varying effect sizes for SCAD, giving rise to a complex genetic architecture. Associated genes highlight an important role for arterial cells and their extracellular matrix in the pathogenesis of SCAD, as well as notable genetic overlap between SCAD and other systemic arteriopathies such as fibromuscular dysplasia and vascular connective tissue diseases. Further investigation of individual variants (including in the associated gene PHACTR1) along with polygenic score analysis have demonstrated an inverse genetic relationship between SCAD and atherosclerosis as distinct causes of AMI. SCAD represents an increasingly recognized cause of AMI with opposing clinical and genetic risk factors from that of AMI due to atherosclerosis, and it is often associated with complex underlying genetic conditions. Genetic study of SCAD on a larger scale and with more diverse cohorts will not only further our evolving understanding of a newly defined genetic spectrum for AMI, but it will also inform the clinical utility of integrating genetic testing in AMI prevention and management moving forward.

Investigation and management of young-onset hypertension: British and Irish hypertension society position statement

National and international hypertension guidelines recommend that adults with young-onset hypertension (aged <40 years at diagnosis) are reviewed by a hypertension specialist to exclude secondary causes of hypertension and optimise therapeutic regimens. A recent survey among UK secondary care hypertension specialist physicians highlighted variations in the investigation of such patients. In this position statement, the British and Irish Hypertension Society seek to provide clinicians with a practical approach to the investigation and management of adults with young-onset hypertension. We aim to ensure that individuals receive consistent and high-quality care across the UK and Ireland, to highlight gaps in the current evidence, and to identify important future research questions.

Cerebral arteriopathies of childhood and stroke - A focus on systemic arteriopathies and pediatric fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD)

Systemic vascular involvement in children with cerebral arteriopathies is increasingly recognized and often highly morbid. Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) represents a cerebral arteriopathy with systemic involvement, commonly affecting the renal and carotid arteries. In adults, FMD diagnosis and classification typically relies on angiographic features, like the 'string-of-beads' appearance, following exclusion of other diseases. Pediatric FMD (pFMD) is considered equivalent to adult FMD although robust evidence for similarities is lacking. We conducted a comprehensive literature review on pFMD and revealed inherent differences between pediatric and adult-onset FMD across various domains including epidemiology, natural history, histopathophysiology, clinical, and radiological features. Although focal arterial lesions are often described in children with FMD, the radiological appearance of 'string-of-beads' is highly nonspecific in children. Furthermore, children predominantly exhibit intimal-type fibroplasia, common in other childhood monogenic arteriopathies. Our findings lend support to the notion that pFMD broadly reflects an undefined heterogenous group of monogenic systemic medium-or-large vessel steno-occlusive arteriopathies rather than a single entity. Recognizing the challenges in categorizing complex morphologies of cerebral arteriopathy using current classifications, we propose a novel term for describing children with cerebral and systemic vascular involvement: 'cerebral and systemic arteriopathy of childhood' (CSA-c). This term aims to streamline patient categorization and, when coupled with advanced vascular imaging and high-throughput genomics, will enhance our comprehension of etiology, and accelerate mechanism-targeted therapeutic developments. Lastly, in light of the high morbidity in children with cerebral and systemic arteriopathies, we suggest that investigating for systemic vascular involvement is important in children with cerebral arteriopathies.

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection and fibromuscular dysplasia: insights into recent developments

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), an uncommon cause of acute coronary syndrome, continues to be a poorly understood disease predominantly affecting females. It is characterized by an abrupt separation in the coronary arterial wall due to intramural bleeding. Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a non-atherosclerotic arteriopathy manifesting in medium and small-sized arteries. It is a concomitant disease found among SCAD patients. In some studies, FMD prevalence in SCAD patients ranges between 25%-86%, which can be explained through varying screening techniques or modalities. The potential association has been elucidated in some studies; notably, not only has a genetic link been recently delineated between SCAD and FMD, but there is data to suggest that FMD not only can predispose to SCAD but can also be a potential predictor of its recurrence. However, a clear-cut correlation between the two has still not been established due to conflicting reports in the literature. To further dive into its pathology, it is crucial to highlight the importance of systematic screening in SCAD in order to identify associated risk factors and to be used as a method of FMD detection in such patients. Together, the two pathologies pose unique challenges in understanding its pathophysiology, diagnosis and management, as there is no clear evidence of a definitive treatment plan for patients with SCAD and FMD. A potentially beneficial modality of management is physical exercise, which is currently understudied in the long-term approach to treatment for patients with concomitant SCAD and FMD. Limited research in this field brings disadvantages to the understanding of the association between these two diseases, in order to give rise to better management recommendations. This mini-review aims to highlight the recent developments in the association between SCAD and FMD, its potential genetic association and some insights in screening, diagnosis, and management.

Coronary Artery Tortuosity and Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection: Association With Echocardiography and Global Longitudinal Strain, Fibromuscular Dysplasia, and Outcomes

BACKGROUND

The etiology and significance of coronary artery tortuosity (TCA) among patients with spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) are unknown. The aim of this prospective imaging cohort study was to report echocardiographic findings and evaluate whether TCA correlates with cardiac anatomy and function among patients with SCAD. Comorbidities including fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) and outcomes were also assessed.

METHODS

TCA was determined on coronary angiography performed during the diagnosis of SCAD, and cardiac structure and function were evaluated using prospective comprehensive echocardiography.

RESULTS

Among 116 patients with SCAD, the mean age at echocardiography was 50.8 ± 8.8 years, a median of 10.9 months after SCAD. Sixty-two patients (53.4%) had FMD, 41 (35.3%) had histories of hypertension, and 17 (14.8%) were hypertensive during echocardiography. Most patients (n = 78 [69%]) had normal left ventricular geometry with normal median ejection fraction (61%; interquartile range, 56% to 64%) and normal global longitudinal strain (-22.2%; interquartile range, -24.0% to -19.9%). Fifteen patients (13.4%) had diastolic dysfunction that was associated with hypertension at the time of echocardiography. Patients with TCA (n = 96 [82.8%]) were older (mean age, 52.1 ± 8.0 vs 44.7 ± 9.9 years; P < .001) with a higher prevalence of FMD (59.4% vs 25%, P = .007) but a similar prevalence of hypertension (35% vs 35%, P > .99) compared with patients without TCA. Across the age range (31.5 to 66.9 years), each decade of age was associated with an approximately 0.89-unit increase in coronary tortuosity score (P < .0001). Echocardiographic parameters were not significantly different between the two groups. Median follow-up duration was 4.4 years (95% CI, 3.8 to 5.2 years). The Kaplan-Meier 3-year SCAD recurrence rate was 9.4% (95% CI, 3.7% to 14.8%). There were no deaths.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of patients with SCAD had normal or near normal echocardiographic results, including global longitudinal strain, with no differences according to TCA. However, patients with SCAD with TCA were older, with a higher prevalence of FMD.

Intrinsic stenosing and occlusive pathologies of the vertebral artery: A narrative review

Intrinsic pathologies of the vertebral arteries, such as atherosclerosis, dissection, fibromuscular dysplasia, radionecrosis and vasculitis, are important causes of vertebrobasilar insufficiency and cerebrovascular events. This review focuses on non-aneurysmal intrinsic stenosing and occlusive pathologies, covering their epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment options. It also provides a detailed summary of key clinical presentations and syndromes, including an in-depth examination of lateral medullary syndrome, historically known as Wallenberg's syndrome, which is arguably the most emblematic condition resulting from vertebral artery involvement and is depicted in an illustrative cartoon.

Predictive Value of the Naples Prognostic Score on Long-Term Outcomes in Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease Revascularized via Percutaneous Intervention

BACKGROUND

Lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD) is the third most common clinical manifestation of atherosclerosis after coronary artery disease and stroke. Despite successful endovascular treatment (EVT), mortality and morbidity rates still remain higher in patients with PAD. Naples prognostic score (NPS) is a novel scoring system, reflects the patient's nutritional and immunological statuses as well as systemic inflammatory responses. In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between NPS and long-term outcomes in patients with PAD.

METHODS

The population of this retrospective study consisted of 629 PAD patients who underwent EVT at Kafkas University Hospital between 2020 and 2023. For each patient, the NPS was calculated and then patients were divided into 3 groups based on their NPS. The primary end point of the study was the rate of major adverse cardiovascular (MACEs) and limb events (MALEs), that is, all-cause death or development of critical limb ischemia with consequent amputation.

RESULTS

Of a total of 629 patients, 62 were classified into group 0 (NPS 0), 315 into group 1 (NPS 1 or 2), and 252 into group 2 (NPS 3 or 4). The distribution of patients' baseline characteristics, angiographic features and MACEs and MALEs according to the NPS groups was analyzed. Significant adverse outcomes differences were observed among the 3 groups (P < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, lowest preprocedure ankle-brachial index, left ventricular ejection fraction and NPS (hazard ratio 1.916, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.530-2.398, P < 0.001) were independent predictors of MACE whereas diabetes mellitus, presence of previous PAD, hemoglobin level, in-hospital acute thrombotic occlusion and NPS (odds ratio 1.963, 95% CI 1.489-2.588, P < 0.001) were independent predictors of MALE.

CONCLUSIONS

The inflammatory and nutritional state reflected by NPS levels was strongly associated with all-cause mortality and amputation after EVT in patients with PAD. Furthermore, NPS was found to be an independent predictor of these clinical outcomes.

Bilateral isolated coronary ostial stenosis in a middle-aged premenopausal woman with vasospastic angina: a case report

Background

Vasospastic angina (VSA) is uncommon in premenopausal women who have less chronic endothelial injury causing vascular remodelling, considered to play a primary role in the pathogenesis for coronary vasospasms. Furthermore, vasospasms rarely occur in the bilateral coronary ostia. Isolated coronary ostial stenosis (ICOS), which often causes severe effort angina and requires surgical intervention, is more commonly reported in middle-aged women, with causes including fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) and large-vessel vasculitis. However, ICOS associated with VSA is extremely rare.

Case summary

A 50-year-old premenopausal Japanese woman presented with a complaint of typical chest pain due to angina during light exertion daily in the early morning hours since 3 years. Coronary angiography (CAG) revealed bilateral mild-to-moderate ICOS in addition to multi-vessel spasms involving the bilateral coronary ostia confirmed by the vasospasm provocation test using intracoronary acetylcholine injection. Tests to determine the cause of ICOS did not identify FMD or any other disease. The angina attacks alleviated after calcium channel blocker (CCB) administration without intervention for bilateral ICOS for 24 years since the first presentation. Moreover, coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA) performed 24 years after the first presentation showed no ICOS.

Discussion

In our patient with typical and frequent VSA symptoms, CAG revealed both mild-to-moderate ICOS and the vasospasms in the bilateral coronary ostia. Fibromuscular dysplasia or large-vessel vasculitis was ruled out as the causes of ICOS. Vasospastic angina rarely occurred after the prescription of CCB, and coronary CTA 24 years after the first presentation showed no ICOS. Bilateral ICOS in our patient might be VSA related.

Renal Autotransplantation for Uncontrolled Hypertension in Nonatherosclerotic Renal Artery Stenosis-2 Case Reports and a Brief Review of the Literature

Fibromuscular dysplasia is the most common cause of renovascular hypertension in young adults under 40 years old. It is potentially amenable to renal artery angioplasty, which frequently normalizes blood pressure. However, limited options exist if angioplasty is not technically possible, or restenosis occurs. Here, we describe 2 patients who presented with hypertension secondary to renal artery stenosis. In the first case, a young adult with hypertension secondary to renal artery stenosis (fibromuscular dysplasia), developed restenosis 11 weeks after an initially successful renal artery angioplasty. In the second case, a patient with neurofibromatosis type 1 was diagnosed with hypertension secondary to renal artery stenosis. Angioplasty was not possible due to multiple branch occlusions. Both individuals went on to have successful renal autotransplantations, which ultimately cured their hypertension. In this article, we review the background, indications, and blood pressure outcomes in relation to renal autotransplantation in nonatherosclerotic renal artery stenosis.

A previously healthy 3-year-old female with hypertension, proteinuria, and hypercalciuria

A 3-year-old female patient with no significant medical history presented to her pediatrician with foamy urine. Initial testing revealed moderate proteinuria on qualitative testing, although she was incidentally noted to have severe hypertension (240/200 mmHg). Physical examination of the carotid and femoral areas revealed significant systolic vascular murmurs. Labs showed elevated serum creatinine, hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis, elevated renin and aldosterone and hypercalciuria. Echocardiography identified ventricular hypertrophy. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen and magnetic resonance angiography of the head showed multiple tortuous or interrupted arteries and multiple calcifications in the renal sinus area. B-mode ultrasonography suggested thickening of the carotid and femoral artery walls, with numerous spotted calcifications. Genetic testing revealed that ABCC6 had a complex heterozygous mutation (exon 24: c.3340C > T and intron 30: c.4404-1G > A). Our panel of experts reviewed the evaluation of this patient with hypertension, proteinuria, hypercalciuria, and vascular abnormalities as well as the diagnosis and appropriate management of a rare disease.

Treatment and Outcomes of Cervical Artery Dissection in Adults: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Cervical artery dissection is an important cause of stroke, particularly in young adults. Data conflict on the diagnostic evaluation and treatment of patients with suspected cervical artery dissection, leading to variability in practice. We aim to provide an overview of cervical artery dissection in the setting of minor or no reported mechanical trigger with a focus on summarizing the available evidence and providing suggestions on the diagnostic evaluation, treatment approaches, and outcomes. Writing group members drafted their sections using a literature search focused on publications between January 1, 1990, and December 31, 2022, and included randomized controlled trials, prospective and retrospective observational studies, meta-analyses, opinion papers, case series, and case reports. The writing group chair and vice chair compiled the manuscript and obtained writing group members' approval. Cervical artery dissection occurs as a result of the interplay among risk factors, minor trauma, anatomic and congenital abnormalities, and genetic predisposition. The diagnosis can be challenging both clinically and radiologically. In patients with acute ischemic stroke attributable to cervical artery dissection, acute treatment strategies such as thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy are reasonable in otherwise eligible patients. We suggest that the antithrombotic therapy choice be individualized and continued for at least 3 to 6 months. The risk of recurrent dissection is low, and preventive measures may be considered early after the diagnosis and continued in high-risk patients. Ongoing longitudinal and population-based observational studies are needed to close the present gaps on preferred antithrombotic regimens considering clinical and radiographic prognosticators of cervical artery dissection.

Sex-specific genetic architecture of blood pressure

The genetic and genomic basis of sex differences in blood pressure (BP) traits remain unstudied at scale. Here, we conducted sex-stratified and combined-sex genome-wide association studies of BP traits using the UK Biobank resource, identifying 1,346 previously reported and 29 new BP trait-associated loci. Among associated loci, 412 were female-specific (Pfemale ≤ 5 × 10-8; Pmale > 5 × 10-8) and 142 were male-specific (Pmale ≤ 5 × 10-8; Pfemale > 5 × 10-8); these sex-specific loci were enriched for hormone-related transcription factors, in particular, estrogen receptor 1. Analyses of gene-by-sex interactions and sexually dimorphic effects identified four genomic regions, showing female-specific associations with diastolic BP or pulse pressure, including the chromosome 13q34-COL4A1/COL4A2 locus. Notably, female-specific pulse pressure-associated loci exhibited enriched acetylated histone H3 Lys27 modifications in arterial tissues and a female-specific association with fibromuscular dysplasia, a female-biased vascular disease; colocalization signals included Chr13q34: COL4A1/COL4A2, Chr9p21: CDKN2B-AS1 and Chr4q32.1: MAP9 regions. Sex-specific and sex-biased polygenic associations of BP traits were associated with multiple cardiovascular traits. These findings suggest potentially clinically significant and BP sex-specific pleiotropic effects on cardiovascular diseases.

Vascular Diseases in Women: Do Women Suffer from Them Differently?

According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death among women worldwide, yet its magnitude is often underestimated. Biological and gender differences affect health, diagnosis, and healthcare in numerous ways. The lack of sex and gender awareness in health research and healthcare is an ongoing issue that affects not only research but also treatment and outcomes. The importance of recognizing the impacts of both sex and gender on health and of knowing the differences between the two in healthcare is beginning to gain ground. There is more appreciation of the roles that biological differences (sex) and sociocultural power structures (gender) have, and both sex and gender affect health behavior, the development of diseases, their diagnosis, management, and the long-term effects of an illness. An important issue is the knowledge and awareness of women about vascular diseases. The risk of cardiovascular events is drastically underestimated by women themselves, as well as by those around them. The purpose of this review is to draw attention to improving the medical care and treatment of women with vascular diseases.

A Rare Case of Focal Renal Fibromuscular Dysplasia Treated With Angioplasty: A Case Report

BACKGROUND

Fibromuscular dysplasia is an idiopathic, segmental, nonatherosclerotic, noninflammatory vascular disease that can lead to arterial stenosis, tortuosity, occlusion, aneurysms, and dissection. Fibromuscular dysplasia is a rare cause of hypertension that can easily be missed. To date, there has been no definitive treatment for fibromuscular dysplasia.

CASE REPORT

In this report, we present an uncommon case of renovascular hypertension in a 21-year-old non-white female with a 3-year history of hypertension secondary to fibromuscular dysplasia involving bilateral renal arteries. Computed tomography angiography during the arterial phase revealed distal focal narrowing of the right main renal artery, distal focal narrowing of the left main renal artery, and proximal focal narrowing of the left accessory lower renal artery. Percutaneous balloon dilatation of the stenotic lesion was performed successfully up to 1 year After the procedure, the arterial blood pressure was within the normal range (110/70 to 125/75 mmHg) without medication. After 1 year of follow-up, CTA revealed re-stenosis in left main renal artery without clinical symptoms and normal blood pressure. Repeated procedure was done successfully.

CONCLUSIONS

This case report highlights the difficulty in the diagnosis and treatment of focal fibromuscular dysplasia in young non-white female patients. Computerized tomographic angiography is a useful tool for identifying the cause and showing the benefit of percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty treatment for this rare entity, as an early percutaneous angioplasty intervention may have a clinical cure for hypertension.

Overview of Vasculitides in Adults

Vasculitis is characterized by the inflammation of blood vessels. Vasculitides refers to the different forms of vasculitis, often classified according to the size of the blood vessel that is involved. Vasculitis may occur as a primary process or secondary to many systemic diseases. This topic provides an overview of the clinical features, diagnosis, and classification of the different forms of vasculitides.

Risks and benefits of renal artery stenting in fibromuscular dysplasia: Lessons from the ARCADIA-POL study

INTRODUCTION

Although renal stenting is the standard revascularization method for atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis (RAS) (FMD-RAS), stenting in fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) RAS is usually limited to periprocedural complications of angioplasty and primary arterial dissection. The main aim of the study was to retrospectively analyze the immediate and long-term results of renal stenting versus angioplasty in patients with FMD.

METHODS

Of 343 patients in the ARCADIA-POL registry, 58 patients underwent percutaneous treatment due to FMD-RAS (in 70 arteries). Percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty (PTRA) was performed as an initial treatment in 61 arteries (PTRA-group), whereas primary stenting was undertaken in nine arteries (stent-group). Stent-related complications were defined as: in-stent restenosis > 50% (ISR); stent fracture; under-expansion; or migration.

RESULTS

In the PTRA-group, the initial restenosis rate was 50.8%. A second procedure was then performed in 22 arteries: re-PTRA (12 arteries) or stenting (10 arteries). The incidence of recurrent restenosis after re-PTRA was 41.7%. Complications occurred in seven of 10 (70%) arteries secondarily treated by stenting: two with under-expansion and five with ISR. In the stent-group, stent under-expansion occurred in one case (11.1%) and ISR in three of nine stents (33.3%). In combined analysis of stented arteries, either primarily or secondarily, stent-related complications occurred in 11/19 stenting procedures (57.9%): three due to under-expansion and eight due to ISRs. Finally, despite several revascularization attempts, four of 19 (21%) stented arteries were totally occluded and one was significantly stenosed at follow-up imaging.

CONCLUSION

Our study indicates that renal stenting in FMD-RAS may carry a high risk of late complications, including stent occlusion. Further observational data from large-scale registries are required.

Approach to the Patient: Reninoma

A reninoma is a functional tumor of afferent arteriolar juxtaglomerular cells that secretes the enzyme renin, leading to hyperactivation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Reninoma is a potentially curable cause of pathological secondary hyperaldosteronism that results in often severe hypertension and hypokalemia. The lack of suppression of plasma renin contrasts sharply with the much more common primary aldosteronism, but diagnosis is often prompted by screening for that condition. The major differential diagnosis of reninoma is renovascular hypertension. Fewer than 200 cases of reninoma have been described. Reninomas have been reported across a broad demographic but have a 2:1 predilection for women, often of childbearing age. Aldosterone receptor blockade, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, or angiotensin receptor blockers offer effective medical management but are contraindicated in pregnancy, so surgical curative resection is ideal. The current optimal imaging and biochemical workup of reninoma and management approach (ideally, tumor excision with subtotal renal resection) are described.

Differentiating between segmental arterial mediolysis and other arterial vasculopathies to establish an early diagnosis - a systematic literature review and proposal of new diagnostic criteria

Segmental arterial mediolysis (SAM) is a rare vascular disease, characterized by acute but transient vulnerability of the wall of medium-sized arteries. The most characteristic feature of SAM is its biphasic course: an injurious phase marked by acute weakness of the arterial wall leading to acute dissection and/or hemorrhage, followed by a reparative phase in which granulation tissue and fibrosis restore the injured arterial wall. Residual stenosis, aneurysms, and/or arterial wall irregularities may remain visible on future imaging studies. Differentiating between SAM and other arterial vasculopathies is difficult due to its similarities with many other vascular diseases, such as vasculitis, fibromuscular dysplasia, inherited connective tissue disorders, and isolated visceral artery dissection. In this systematic review, we provide an overview on SAM, with an emphasis on the differential diagnosis and diagnostic work-up. We propose new diagnostic criteria to help establish a prompt diagnosis of SAM, illustrated by case examples from our multidisciplinary vascular clinic.

A Renal Artery Stenting Case: Support for Increased Use of Drug-Eluting Stents

Fibromuscular dysplasia is a rare, systemic arteriovascular disease that often affects the renal arteries. Balloon angioplasty is recommended for uncontrolled hypertension and compromised renal function; stenting is a bailout option. Drug-eluting stents have been suggested in case reports. We report the successful intervention with an everolimus-coated stent in a very young patient. The patient was followed for 2 years after placing the stent. The success of this case suggests that drug-eluting stents should be used more frequently in comparable situations.

Advancements in the Genetics of Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a significant cause of acute myocardial infarction that is increasingly recognized in young and middle-aged women. The etiology of SCAD is likely multifactorial and may include the interaction of environmental and individual factors. Here, we summarize the current understanding of the genetic factors contributing to the development of SCAD.

RECENT FINDINGS

The molecular findings underlying SCAD have been demonstrated to include a combination of rare DNA sequence variants with large effects, common variants contributing to a complex genetic architecture, and variants with intermediate impact. The genes associated with SCAD highlight the role of arterial cells and their extracellular matrix in the pathogenesis of the disease and shed light on the relationship between SCAD and other disorders, including fibromuscular dysplasia and connective tissue diseases. While up to 10% of affected individuals may harbor a rare variant with large effect, SCAD most often presents as a complex genetic condition. Analyses of larger and more diverse cohorts will continue to improve our understanding of risk susceptibility loci and will also enable consideration of the clinical utility of genetic testing strategies in the management of SCAD.

Prevalence and outcomes of select rare vascular conditions in females: A descriptive review

Rare vascular conditions frequently pose a diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma for health care providers. Several of these conditions have distinct relevance to females populations but, due to their infrequency, there has been little reported on the outcomes of rare vascular conditions specifically in females populations. We performed a literature review of a selection of three rare vascular conditions known to either disproportionately affect females (median arcuate ligament syndrome and fibromuscular dysplasia) or have unique manifestations in females populations (vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome). We performed a descriptive review of the literature focused on these three vascular conditions and identified aspects of the current available research describing sex-based differences in prevalence, any pathophysiology explaining the observed sex-based differences, and the contribution of sex to outcomes for each disease process. In addition, considerations for pregnant females with respect to each rare vascular disease process are discussed.

Fibromuscular Dysplasia: Three Cases to Highlight a Requirement for Surveillance Strategy Optimization

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a rare vascular disease with broad, potentially severe complications. We present three cases of FMD covering the spectrum of clinical presentations involving the abdominal and visceral vasculature, and highlight the potential role of high-risk genotype detection in assisting with the determination of which patients may benefit from a more aggressive surveillance strategy.

Selecting patients for interventional procedures to treat hypertension

Purpose: Interventional approaches to treat hypertension are an emerging option that may be suitable for patients whose BP control cannot be achieved with lifestyle and/or pharmacotherapy and possibly for those who do not wish to take drug therapy.Materials and Methods: Interventional strategies include renal denervation with radiofrequency, ultrasound and alcohol-mediated platforms as well as baroreflex activation therapy and cardiac neuromodulation therapy. Presently renal denervation is the most advanced of the therapeutic options and is currently being commercialised in the EU.Results: It is apparent that RDN is effective in both unmedicated patients and patients with more severe hypertension including those with resistant hypertension.Conclusion: However, at present there is no evidence for the use of RDN in patients with secondary forms of hypertension and thus evaluation to rule these out is necessary before proceeding with a procedure. Furthermore, there are numerous pitfalls in the diagnosis and management of secondary hypertension which need to be taken into consideration. Finally, prior to performing an intervention it is appropriate to document presence/absence of hypertension-mediated organ damage.

MINOCA biomarkers: Non-atherosclerotic aspects

Myocardial infarction in the absence of obstructive coronary artery disease (MINOCA) is an important subtype of myocardial infarction. Although comprising less than 50% stenosis in the main epicardial coronary arteries, it constitutes a severe health risk. A variety of approaches have been recommended, but definitive diagnosis remains elusive. In addition, the lack of a comprehensive understanding of underlying pathophysiology makes clinical management difficult and unpredictable. This review highlights ongoing efforts to identify relevant biomarkers in MINOCA to improve diagnosis, individualize treatment and better predict outcomes.

Identification of the first homozygous intragenic deletion in the YY1AP1 gene in a consanguineous family: New insights into the phenotypic variability associated with Grange syndrome

Grange syndrome (GRNG-MIM#135580) is a rare recessive disorder associating variable features including diffuse vascular stenosis, brachysyndactyly, osteopenia with increased bone fragility, cardiac malformations, and variable developmental delay. Since its first description in 1998, only 15 individuals from 10 families have been reported, carrying homozygous or compound heterozygous frameshift or nonsense variants in YY1AP1. In a patient with cutaneous and bone syndactyly and a hemorrhagic stroke at the age of 16 months, consistent with a clinical diagnosis of GRNG, we performed exome sequencing after negative array-CGH and congenital limb malformation panel results. Copy number variant analysis from exome data identified a homozygous intragenic out-of-frame deletion of 1.84 kb encompassing exons seven and eight of YY1AP1, confirming a molecular diagnosis of GRNG. Genetic counseling led to the identification of additional family members compatible with GRNG. Here, we provide new insights into the phenotypic variability associated with GRNG and highlight the utility of the detection of small copy number variants to identify the molecular causes of heterogeneous malformative genetic disorders.

Cerebral Infarction and Recovery in a 12-Year-Old Child With Intracranial Fibromuscular Dysplasia

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a congenital vascular anomaly resulting in arterial stenosis and weakening of typically medium-sized arteries. It is a noninflammatory, nonatherosclerotic arterial disease that affects most commonly the renal and internal carotid arteries, but intracranial FMD in the pediatric population is very rare. We report a young age-onset ischemic stroke patient with FMD affecting the middle cerebral artery (MCA). A 14-year-old boy was admitted with left-side weakness during physical education at school. The brain magnetic resonance (MR) imaging revealed an acute ischemic stroke in the right basal ganglia and internal capsule, while the MR angiogram showed segmental intraluminal stenosis in the left proximal MCA. The transfemoral angiography revealed the pathognomonic sign of a "string of beads" at the proximal MCA area. The clinical course was stable, and the boy gradually recovered from the motor weakness of his arm and leg. FMD should be considered as a potential cause of pediatric stroke.

From Fibromuscular Dysplasia to Arterial Dissection and Back

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is an idiopathic and systemic non-inflammatory and non-atherosclerotic arterial disease. Fifteen to 25% of patients with FMD present with arterial dissection in at least one arterial bed. Conversely, a substantial number of patients with renal, carotid, and visceral dissection have underlying FMD. Also, while few patients with FMD develop coronary artery dissection, lesions suggestive of multifocal FMD have been reported in 30-80% of patients with spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), and the relation between these two entities remains controversial. The frequent association of FMD with arterial dissection, both in coronary and extra-coronary arteries raises a number of practical and theoretical questions: (i) Are FMD and arterial dissections two different facets of the same disease or distinct though related entities? (ii) Is SCAD just a manifestation of coronary FMD or a different disease? (iii) What is the risk and which are predictive factors of developing arterial dissection in a patient with FMD? (iv) What proportion of patients who experienced an arterial dissection have underlying FMD, and does this finding influence the risk of subsequent arterial complications? In this review we will address these different questions using fragmentary, mostly cross-sectional evidence derived from large registries and studies from Europe and the United States, as well as arguments derived from demographics, clinical presentation, imaging, and when available histology and genetics. From there we will derive practical consequences for nosology, screening and follow-up.

Mesenteric and renal arterial duplex ultrasound: A review

Duplex ultrasound examinations of the mesenteric and renal circulations are commonly used to detect disease as well as to follow up patients after open surgery or endovascular intervention. The aims of this review were to present essential elements of these duplex ultrasound examinations as well as conduct a literature review of diagnostic criteria. Documentation of appropriate images and data will aid in an accurate interpretation. Spectral Doppler waveforms from various segments of these arterial systems can contribute both direct and indirect evidence of the presence of disease. Various studies have validated the duplex ultrasound diagnostic criteria which more recently have expanded to include specific criteria for stented vessels. This review presents a summary of the fundamental exam components and diagnostic criteria utilized for mesenteric and renal duplex ultrasound.

Fibromuscular dysplasia of the brachial artery in patients with spontaneous coronary artery dissection: a case series and literature review

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is diagnosed in a very small percentage of patients with suspected acute coronary syndromes who undergo emergency coronary angiography. Although fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is known to coexist in patients with SCAD, the vascular sites of FMD and their frequency have not yet been clarified. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 16 patients who were diagnosed with and treated for SCAD at our hospital between 1 January 2011 and 31 January 2023. We have summarized their baseline and clinical characteristics and medical variables, including coronary and upper extremity angiography and in-hospital outcomes. One of our patients had concurrent cardiac tamponade requiring pericardial drainage, and another went into hemorrhage shock the following day from dissection of the gastric retroperitoneal artery. Characteristic angiographic features of partial or diffuse nonatherosclerotic stenosis were observed mainly in the distal parts of the coronary arteries or their branches. Notably, in six patients with SCAD who underwent upper extremity angiography, FMD of the brachial artery was revealed. For the first time, to our knowledge, we found a high prevalence of multifocal FMD of the brachial artery in patients with SCAD.

Assessment of extra-coronary peripheral arteriopathy in spontaneous coronary dissection: state of the art in non-invasive imaging techniques and future perspectives

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) has been recognized as an important cause of acute coronary syndrome in women ≤ 50 years old, and up to 43% of pregnancy-associated myocardial infarction. SCAD has a strong association with extra-coronary arteriopathies, including either more common entities such as dissections, intracranial or other aneurysms, and extra-coronary and coronary arterial tortuosity or less common inherited vascular disorders such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Marfan syndrome, and Loeys-Dietz syndrome, leading to the conclusion that systemic arterial disorders may underlie SCAD. Fibromuscular dysplasia is the most common extra-coronary vascular abnormality identified among these patients, also sharing a common genetic variant with SCAD. The American Heart Association, in a scientific statement regarding the management of SCAD, recommends that patients with SCAD should undergo additional evaluation with imaging techniques including either computed tomography angiography (CTA) or magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). MRA has been shown to have sufficient diagnostic accuracy in identifying extra-coronary arterial abnormalities, almost equal to CTA and conventional angiography. The aim of this review is to appraise the most recent important evidence of extra-coronary arteriopathy in the setting of SCAD and to discuss the strengths and weaknesses of various non-invasive imaging methods for screening of extra-coronary arteriopathies in patients with SCAD.

Is carotid web an arterial wall dysplasia? A histological series

INTRODUCTION

Described for 60 years under various names, the carotid web is a suspected cause of cryptogenic stroke, especially in young patients. The web creates an intraluminal protrusion that may contribute to turbulent flow and thrombus embolization into cerebral arteries. Although the carotid web has frequently been related to arterial fibrodysplasia, its natural history and pathological description remain unclear.

PATIENTS

Among all consecutive patients admitted to the stroke unit of Sainte-Anne Hospital and referred to the vascular surgery department from January 2015 to December 2022, we retrospectively identified 9 patients with a carotid web. The surgical specimens of the 9 patients were submitted to systematic pathological analysis.

RESULTS

The patients with a histologically confirmed carotid web were young (median age was 42 years), prominently women (7/9), and presenting with low cardiovascular risk. Eight patients had a stroke proven by a magnetic resonance imaging, and 1 had transient monocular amaurosis. The typical pathological lesion supporting the imaging pattern of the carotid web was a focal eccentric intimal hyperplasia forming a protruding lesion characterized by a population of vascular smooth muscle cells intermingled in an abundant, most often loose extracellular matrix. Pathologically proven thrombus was observed in 4 cases. Importantly atherosclerosis was absent.

CONCLUSION

Histological features in our 9 cases strengthen carotid web characterization as a homogeneous pattern of localized intimal hyperplasia. It is a unique entity consistent with intimal fibroplasia, distinct from medial fibromuscular dysplasia and early atherosclerosis.

Vasculitis: When to Consider this Diagnosis?

Vasculitis is a diverse group of disorders involving inflammation of the blood vessels. Approaching the diagnosis of vasculitis can be challenging, given the differing clinical presentation and organ manifestations. Often vasculitis is a diagnosis that is considered too late, given the heterogeneous presentation and various mimics. This article aims to provide physicians with a diagnostic approach to vasculitis.

Unique presentation of renovascular hypertension due to fibromuscular dysplasia

A 21-year-old female with a history of right nephrectomy due to trauma presented with several years of multidrug-resistant hypertension. Her workup included negative findings from autoimmune and vasculitides panels and urine catecholamine testing. Computed tomography showed an acute hairpin turn of her left renal artery. Intraoperatively, the artery demonstrated kinking with exhalation. She underwent excision of the diseased portion of the renal artery and an end-to-end anastomosis. Final pathologic examination demonstrated fibromuscular dysplasia. This is a unique case of mechanical artery kinking combined with fibromuscular dysplasia contributing to renovascular hypertension, for which open surgery was beneficial at improving the patient's hypertension.

Cerebrovascular Fibromuscular Dysplasia - A Practical Review

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a rare idiopathic, segmental, noninflammatory and nonatherosclerotic arteriopathy of medium-sized arteries. It is classically considered to be a disease of young and middle adulthood, with females more commonly affected than males. FMD is a systemic disease. Although historically considered to be rare, cerebrovascular FMD (C-FMD) has now been recognized to be as common as the renovascular counterpart. Extracranial carotid and vertebral arteries are the most commonly involved vascular territories in C-FMD with the clinical presentation determined by vessels affected. Common symptoms include headaches and pulsatile tinnitus, with transient ischemic attacks, ischemic stroke and subarachnoid or intracerebral hemorrhage constituting the more severe clinical manifestations. Cervical artery dissection involving carotids more often than vertebral arteries and intracranial aneurysms account for the cerebrovascular pathologies detected in C-FMD. Our understanding regarding C-FMD has been augmented in the recent past on account of dedicated C-FMD data from North American, European and other international FMD cohorts. In this review article, we provide an updated and comprehensive overview on epidemiology, clinical presentation, etiology, diagnosis and management of C-FMD.

Association of single nucleotide polymorphisms with dyslipidemia and risk of metabolic disorders in the State of Qatar

BACKGROUND

Dyslipidemia is recognized as one of the risk factors of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to investigate the association between selected single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with dyslipidemia and increased susceptibility risks of CVD, NAFLD, and/or T2DM in dyslipidemia patients in comparison with healthy control individuals from the Qatar genome project.

METHODS

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 2933 adults (859 dyslipidemia patients and 2074 healthy control individuals) from April to December 2021 to investigate the association between 331 selected SNPs with dyslipidemia and increased susceptibility risks of CVD, NAFLD and/or T2DM, and covariates.

RESULTS

The genotypic frequencies of six SNPs were found to be significantly different in dyslipidemia patients subjects compared to the control group among males and females. In males, three SNPs were found to be significant, the rs11172113 in over-dominant model, the rs646776 in recessive and over-dominant models, and the rs1111875 in dominant model. On the other hand, two SNPs were found to be significant in females, including rs2954029 in recessive model, and rs1801251 in dominant and recessive models. The rs17514846 SNP was found for dominant and over-dominant models among males and only the dominant model for females. We found that the six SNPs linked to gender type had an influence in relation to disease susceptibility. When controlling for the four covariates (gender, obesity, hypertension, and diabetes), the difference between dyslipidemia and the control group remained significant for the six variants. Finally, males were three times more likely to have dyslipidemia in comparison with females, hypertension was two times more likely to be present in the dyslipidemia group, and diabetes was six times more likely to be in the dyslipidemia group.

CONCLUSION

The current investigation provides evidence of association for a common SNP to coronary heart disease and suggests a sex-dependent effect and encourage potential therapeutic applications.

Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection: Review of Possible Pathophysiological Risk Factors

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a rare cause of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) that typically affects the younger and healthier female population without the typical ACS risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia. The clinical presentation of SCAD can be diverse and the diagnosis is typically by coronary angiography but also can require advanced imaging such as intravascular ultrasound or optical coherence tomography. Past studies have shown the atypical patient characteristics of SCAD patients among ACS patients. The main challenge is that the exact pathophysiology of SCAD is unknown. Potential pathophysiological risk factors are discussed including fibromuscular dysplasia, other arteriopathies, pregnancy and female sex hormone changes, migraines, inflammatory conditions, and stress. The current understanding of these risk factors along with potential pathophysiological mechanisms are discussed. There still remain many areas of additional investigation in understanding this rare cause of ACS.

Hemorrhage From Left Hepatic Artery Pseudoaneurysm as a Complication of Acute Pancreatitis in a Patient With Fibromuscular Dysplasia

Hepatic artery pseudoaneurysms are a rare complication of pancreatitis, and their rupture and bleeding cause high mortality. We present the case of a 76-year-old woman with fibromuscular dysplasia who developed a new left hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm within a week of her first episode of acute pancreatitis and later suffered an acute pseudoaneurysm bleed successfully treated with transcatheter coil embolization. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case reported of a patient with fibromuscular dysplasia with pancreatitis-related pseudoaneurysm formation. One must consider pseudoaneurysms and associated bleeding as complications of acute pancreatitis because prompt recognition can lead to timely management.

Hand Knob Syndrome Secondary to Ipsilateral Concomitant Carotid Fibromuscular Dysplasia and Proximal Atherosclerotic Disease

One of the uncommon stroke presentations is the isolated wrist drop syndrome, caused by a stroke affecting the hand knob area, with the embolic mechanism being the most commonly identified mechanism. Here, we present the case of a 62-year-old female patient who presented with acute-onset isolated wrist drop secondary to right internal carotid artery fibromuscular dysplasia with a string of beads appearance and coexisting proximal atherosclerotic severe stenosis. The patient underwent successful carotid artery stenting. Patients with hand knob stroke may present a diagnostic dilemma and can be misdiagnosed as having peripheral neuropathy due to the absence of pyramidal signs and other symptoms of cortical involvement, leading to delayed or inappropriate treatment.

Type I Non-ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI) Followed by Type II in a Young Patient With Fibromuscular Dysplasia (FMD) Presented With Hypertensive Emergency: A Case Report

This article presents a case report highlighting the association between fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) and acute myocardial infarction in a 25-year-old female patient with multiple cardiovascular comorbidities. Initially presenting with a hypertensive emergency, the patient subsequently developed acute coronary syndrome. MRI revealed irregular narrowing of the bilateral renal arteries, consistent with a diagnosis of FMD. Further evaluation through cardiac catheterization confirmed 95% stenosis of the mid-circumflex artery, necessitating percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Fibromuscular dysplasia has been frequently reported in conjunction with coronary artery dissection leading to acute coronary syndrome, especially in young females. Here, we describe the case of FMD without any coronary artery dissection. The presence of FMD highlights the need for comprehensive evaluation and management in patients with multiple cardiovascular risk factors. The recognition of FMD as an underlying pathology in acute myocardial infarction is crucial for appropriate intervention strategies. In this particular case, PCI was successfully performed to address the significant stenosis of the mid-circumflex artery. These findings emphasize the importance of considering FMD as a potential contributing factor in young patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome, particularly in the context of renal artery involvement. Increased awareness among healthcare providers regarding the association between FMD and acute myocardial infarction can aid in prompt diagnosis, appropriate management, and improved patient outcomes.