Arteriovenous Malformations (AVM’s)
A brain arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a rare, usually congenital abnormality in which a network of abnormal blood vessels disrupts normal blood flow within the brain. AVMs may sometimes be associated with visible skin changes, such as a dark red or purple mark. They can enlarge during childhood and adolescence. Brain AVMs can lead to serious complications, including bleeding in the brain, brain damage, stroke, paralysis, and long-term disability.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include:
- Headaches
- Seizures
- Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
- Tingling or numbness
- Problems with vision, hearing, or memory
- Changes in personality
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis may involve:
- Review of medical history, including signs and symptoms
- Physical and neurological examination
- Blood tests
- Imaging studies, such as CT scans, MRI scans, and cerebral angiography
Treatment Options
It is important to treat brain AVMs to reduce the risk of bleeding and manage complications such as seizures. Treatment may include medications to control symptoms or blood pressure. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove the AVM.
Because a child’s brain is still developing, treatment can sometimes result in more side effects than those experienced by adults. However, advances in surgical techniques have made many previously inoperable brain AVMs more accessible and safer to treat.
Recovery
Recovery depends on the location of the AVM, the severity of symptoms, and the type of treatment received. Recovery may include:
- Temporary confusion or neurological deficits
- Rehabilitation
- Follow-up MRI scans
- Possible additional surgery
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational therapy
- Pain medication as required
- Speech therapy, if needed
