What is Nevus Cavernosus?

Nevus Cavernosus is a rare disease of the capillaries and smallest veins in one part of the brain. The disorder occurs when a blood-filled mass resembling a tumor, called a hemangioma, forms.

Other names for Nevus Cavernosus:

• Cavernous Angioma
• Congenital Vascular
• Cavernous Malformations
• Cavernomas
• Familial Hemangioma
• Vascular Erectile Tumor

Causes of Nevus Cavernosus:

Nevus Cavernosus can be present at birth (congenital) or develop after birth (acquired). Mostly these disorders are caused by a mutation in one of three particular genes. The gene mutation may occur for the first time in the affected individual or be inherited from a parent. Acquired Nevus Cavernosus can be caused by trauma, radiation, or other injury to the brain or spinal cord.

Symptoms of Nevus Cavernosus:

Individuals with this disorder may have no symptoms at all or have sudden or ongoing symptoms related to hemorrhage (bleeding of the lesion) or seizures. Rarely, infants may have macrocephaly (unusually large head) with or without seizures. Major symptoms of Nevus Cavernosus include headaches and seizures.

Diagnosis of Nevus Cavernosus:

Diagnosing of Nevus Cavernosus include following –
1. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
2. CT scans
3. Angiography
4. Surgery
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the standard of care for diagnosing nevus cavernosus because it detects them much more often than CT scans or angiography.

Treatment of Nevus Cavernosus:

Treatments for this disorder are symptomatic and supportive. Surgery may be performed if the malformation is easily accessible and is causing bleeding in the brain or seizures. Other surgical procedures may be considered too risky for some patients.