neurologic disorders
Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs)
Introduction
Arteriovenous malformation (AVMs) are tangled, dilated blood vessels in which arteries flow directly into veins. AVMs occur most often at the junction of cerebral arteries, usually within the parenchyma of the frontal-parietal region, frontal lobe, lateral cerebellum, or overlying occipital lobe. AVMs also can occur within the dura. Cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are uncommon vascular lesions that can manifest with spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage , seizures, or headache, typically in young adults. Hemorrhage due to a brain AVM is typically intraparenchymal but can be Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH) or intraventricular. Seizures are typically focal, and the location of the AVM determines the seizure type. These focal seizures often become generalized. Cerebral AVMs can also manifest with headache, even without intracranial hemorrhage. Occasionally, a cranial bruit can be detected. 