INFORMATION ON CAVERNOUS MALFORMATION

A cavernoma or cavernous malformation is a vascular abnormality of the central nervous system. It consists of a group of irregular, dilated vessels. Pathologically, it is red to purple in color, appearing as a raspberry. Cavernomas contain blood products at different stages of development and are usually less than 3 centimeters in size.

 

CAUSES OF CAVERNOUS MALFORMATION

Some persons are born with a tendency to develop cavernous malformations. They are not a cancer, which means they cannot spread to other parts of the body. Occasionally, people may have many cavernoma.

SYMPTOMS OF CAVERNOUS MALFORMATION

• Seizures
• Progressive or transient neurological deficits
• blood loss
• Headache
It is important to know that a cavernous malformation can be present and not produces any sign. In fact, about 12% of patients at our clinic are asymptomatic.

 

TREATMENT OF CAVERNOUS MALFORMATION

There are two possible options exist for patients who are found to have a cavernous malformation:
• Surgery
• No treatment
NOTE: Alternatives may exist to these two options, which your doctor will be happy to discuss with you.