Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) is a complex vascular abnormality that occurs in the brain. It is characterized by a tangle of abnormally formed blood vessels, which connect arteries and veins directly without the presence of capillaries. This condition occurs during embryonic development and is present at birth, although symptoms may not manifest until later in life.
Intracranial AVMs can vary in size and location within the brain. The abnormal blood vessels in an AVM have weaker walls and are prone to rupture, leading to bleeding in the brain. Symptoms of an AVM may include seizures, headaches, weakness or numbness in the limbs, vision loss, difficulty speaking, or severe neurological deficits. However, many AVMs may remain asymptomatic and are only detected incidentally during neuroimaging tests for unrelated conditions.
The exact cause of Intracranial AVMs is still not fully understood, but genetic factors and abnormal blood vessel development during fetal development may contribute to their formation. Treatment options for AVMs depend on the size, location, and clinical presentation. They can include observation, surgical removal, embolization (blocking the abnormal blood vessels), and stereotactic radiosurgery.
Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformations are relatively rare, affecting less than 1% of the population. Despite their low occurrence, they can be life-threatening if left untreated due to the risk of bleeding and associated complications.
