Arteriovenous malformations (AVM)
Arteriovenous malformations (AVM) are cluster of abnormal blood vessels (contains both arteries and veins) that disrupts the normal blood supply. It most commonly occurs as a congenital condition but can also occur later in life. The exact cause of AVMs are unknown with most of them occurring in brain and spinal cord. Common signs and symptoms are headache, seizures, nausea, vomiting and neurological problems. A common complication of AVM is haemorrhage or severe bleeding. Pic credit: @themedicalmentors (Instagram) https://www.instagram.com/p/CJd2Fomhb7j/?igshid=1qrac0jhd2ue5
Investigations carried out to identify AV malformations are: 1. Digital subtraction angiography: Considered Gold standard technique for brain AVM. It helps in identifying the location of AVM, feeding vessels involved and drainage pattern as well. 2. CT scan: non-invasive method 3. CT angiography: Involves injection of contrast in the blood to better appreciate the arteries 3. MRI: non-invasive technique for viewing soft tissues. 5. Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA): Magnetic imaging combined with contrast injection.
