Moyamoya was once thought to affect only one in a million children born in the United States. But in the last decade, scientists have come to believe it’s at least ten times more common. (http://discoveries.childrenshospital.org/neurosurgeons-pioneering-technique-benefits-thousands/)
There are 6 stages of progression for moyamoya
The progression of the disease varies from person to person
People diagnosed with moyamoya will always have moyamoya
Once diagnosed the only option is surgery
An angiogram is required prior to surgery to map out the surgery
6% of moyamoya patients are in the same family
The majority of patients have had a TIA/mini-stroke or a stroke prior to diagnosis
The average age of symptoms first appearing is 6 ½ years old
The average age of surgery is 7 years old
It is more common among girls than boys
It is more prevalent in children of Asian descent
Follow up in patients with moyamoya is extremely important to help build a knowledge base
MRIs are needed for the rest of the patient’s life
Daily aspirin is required for the rest of the patient’s life