Fibromuscular dysplasia: when is intervention warranted?

Fibromuscular dysplasia is a multifactorial arteriopathy that primarily affects small and medium-sized arteries. It is most common in the renal and internal carotid arteries. Pathological classification is based on the arterial wall layer most significantly involved. The natural history and incidence of asymptomatic disease is unknown. The most common lesions become symptomatic as a high-grade stenosis producing renovascular hypertension or as an embolic source for the cerebral circulation. Treatment is reserved for symptomatic lesions. Most simple lesions are effectively treated by catheter-based intervention. Surgical therapy is warranted for more complex lesions. Both produce durable, long-term results.