An arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a complex and abnormal tangle of blood vessels that disrupts the normal flow of blood between arteries and veins. It is a rare vascular anomaly that occurs during fetal development or soon after birth. AVMs can be found in various parts of the body, but they most commonly occur in the brain and spinal cord.
In an AVM, the arteries, which carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the body, are directly connected to veins, which normally carry oxygen-depleted blood back to the heart. This direct connection bypasses the tiny vessels known as capillaries. Without the presence of capillaries, the surrounding tissues are often deprived of much-needed oxygen and nutrients, causing potential damage.
The exact cause of AVMs is not fully understood, but genetic factors and abnormal blood vessel development during embryonic stages are believed to play a role. Symptoms of AVMs can vary depending on their location and size but may include severe headaches, seizures, weakness or numbness in limbs, visual disturbances, or even life-threatening brain bleeding.
Diagnosis of an AVM often involves imaging techniques such as angiography or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Treatment options for AVMs depend on their size, location, and associated symptoms. They may include surgical removal, endovascular intervention, radiation therapy, or a combination of these approaches.
As AVMs can pose significant health risks and complications, early detection, prompt medical evaluation, and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing this vascular abnormality effectively.
