Overview
A cavernous malformation is an abnormal cluster of tightly packed capillaries (small blood vessels). It’s usually located in your brain, brainstem and spinal cord (cerebral cavernous malformation).
The cavernous hemangioma (lesion) looks like a raspberry. It can range in size from a fraction of an inch to dime-sized or larger. It has blood-filled spaces with connective tissues between them. They don’t have a lot of support and they’re thinner than other capillaries. This makes them more likely to leak blood. As a result, you may experience symptoms and potentially life-threatening complications if the bleed is severe.
Cavernous malformations go by many different names. You may hear your healthcare provider refer to them as:
- Cavernomas.
- Cavernous hemangiomas.
- Cerebral cavernous malformations.
- Cavernous angiomas.
- Occult vascular malformations.
Are cavernous malformations dangerous?
The thin walls of these capillaries make cerebral cavernous malformations prone to bleeding. Bleeding in your brain and spinal cord (hemorrhage) can cause seizures, paralysis or stroke. They can be life-threatening in severe cases. But most hemangiomas don’t cause too many problems.
Many factors determine if cavernous malformations are dangerous, including:
- The size.
- The number of hemangiomas you have.
- The location.
- The likelihood that the hemangioma will rupture with severe bleeding.
Because each person’s situation is unique, it’s best to ask your healthcare provider about your risk for dangerous and possibly life-threatening events.
Symptoms
When to see a doctor
Complications
- High blood pressure.
- Diabetes.
- Heart failure.
- Some types of heart valve disease.
Prevention
- Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
- Don't smoke or use tobacco.
- Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
- Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
- Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Reduce and manage stress.
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