Pathology

The pathological characteristics of Moyamoya disease are:

• occlusion of the terminal branches of the internal carotid artery and development of collateral vessels in the base of the brain
• genetic basis has been proposed - 7% familial incidence noted
• secondary Moyamoya - theorised that inflammation of the extensive sympathetic innervation of the internal carotid arteries may be responsible for pathological changes seen in Moyamoya disease; basal meningitis and pharyngitis in childhood can lead to Moyamoya vessel formation

Reference

1. Hertza J et al. Moyamoya disease: a review of the literature. Appl Neuropsychol Adult. 2014;21(1):21-7