pathology

Last reviewed 07/2022

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