What screening should I have after a diagnosis of SCAD?

Abnormalities of the arteries throughout the body are common among SCAD patients, and a condition known as fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) has been seen in more than 60% of patients.

Fibromuscular dysplasia is a condition that weakens the artery walls making them prone to tears or bulging. In FMD, patients can have abnormal blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the heart, head and neck, and kidneys. It is recommended that all patients with SCAD undergo blood vessel imaging from their head to pelvis to screen for findings consistent with FMD at the time of diagnosis. This is done using non-invasive imaging such as computed tomography angiography (CTA). If a patient has FMD they should have a follow up at least once a year. Follow-up may include clinical assessment, blood work and imaging. The timing and nature of imaging however, should be individualized according to the severity of the disease and any symptoms.

There is no commercially available genetic screening test for SCAD, however this is an active area of ongoing research.

Screening for connective tissue diseases including Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and Loey-Dietz syndrome, may be considered if you have other clinical signs or symptoms consistent with these conditions.

Overall, we do not screen everyone for these conditions as they are rare. There is no recommended screening for autoimmune or inflammatory disorders as there is no clear association. Genetic counseling may be considered if there is a family history of inherited arteriopathy such as Marfan syndrome or a history of aneurysms.