arteriovenousmalformaatiotautien

Arteriovenous malformations, often abbreviated as AVMs, are abnormal tangles of blood vessels that occur when arteries and veins in a particular area are abnormally connected. Instead of blood flowing from arteries to capillaries and then to veins, in an AVM, blood bypasses the capillaries and flows directly from arteries to veins. This can lead to high-pressure blood flow in the veins, which are not designed to handle such volumes, potentially causing them to enlarge or rupture.

AVMs can occur in various parts of the body, but they are most commonly found in the brain and spinal cord. They can also develop in other organs such as the lungs, liver, and kidneys. The exact cause of AVMs is not fully understood, but they are generally considered to be congenital, meaning they are present at birth. However, some AVMs may develop later in life due to genetic factors or acquired conditions.

Symptoms of AVMs vary depending on their location and size. Brain AVMs can cause headaches, seizures, or neurological deficits like weakness or vision problems. Spinal cord AVMs may lead to pain, numbness, or weakness in the limbs. Other AVMs might be asymptomatic and discovered incidentally.

Diagnosis typically involves imaging techniques such as MRI, CT scans, or angiography to visualize the abnormal blood vessels. Treatment strategies depend on the AVM's characteristics and location. Options include surgical removal, endovascular embolization (blocking the abnormal vessels with a substance), or stereotactic radiosurgery (using focused radiation). The goal of treatment is to reduce the risk of rupture and alleviate symptoms.