FMD
Also written as: FMD — Flow-Mediated Dilation
Flow-mediated dilation; ultrasound technique measuring endothelial function via brachial artery response to occlusion.
Full Definition
Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) is a non-invasive ultrasound technique that assesses endothelial function by measuring the percentage increase in brachial artery diameter following reactive hyperemia. The test involves inflating a blood pressure cuff to occlude blood flow, then measuring arterial dilation after cuff release as blood flow resumes. FMD reflects nitric oxide-mediated endothelial function and serves as an early marker of atherosclerotic disease. Impaired FMD is associated with increased cardiovascular risk and can detect endothelial dysfunction before structural vessel changes occur.
Usage
Usage note: Specify measurement conditions and normal values when reporting FMD results.
In Context
- "FMD testing revealed impaired endothelial function with only 3% dilation post-occlusion." — Vascular function study report
- "Research protocols often use FMD as a surrogate endpoint for cardiovascular interventions." — Clinical trial methodology