Moyamoya Disease - Diagnosis & Treatment

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How is moyamoya disease diagnosed?

Diagnosing moyamoya disease involves several steps:

Physical examination to identify symptoms of stroke or TIA.
Imaging tests
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to visualise blood flow and brain tissue.
- CT scan (Computed Tomography) to detect any areas of brain damage.
- Cerebral angiography, an imaging test using contrast dye to show the blood vessels in the brain.
Electroencephalogram (EEG) to detect abnormal electrical activity in the brain, particularly if seizures are present.

Treatment for moyamoya disease focuses on managing symptoms and preventing further strokes:

Medications
- Antiplatelet drugs such as aspirin to reduce the risk of blood clots.
- Calcium channel blockers to manage symptoms like headaches and improve blood flow.
Surgical procedures
- Direct revascularisation bypass surgery helps create a new pathway for blood flow to the brain.
- Indirect revascularisation procedures encourage the formation of new blood vessels over time. Examples include encephaloduroarteriosynangiosis (EDAS) or encephalomyosynangiosis (EMS), which may be performed in combination by a surgeon in some cases.
Physical, occupational, and speech therapy to recover lost functions and improve quality of life.
Regular check-ups to monitor disease progression and manage any new symptoms.