Central Nervous System Vascular Malformations

Central nervous system vascular malformations are rare issues with the blood vessels in the brain or spinal cord and their coverings, called membranes.

There are several types of central nervous system vascular malformations, including:

• Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). These are unusual tangles of blood vessels that connect arteries and veins. AVM can be anywhere in the body. Most often they occur in or near the brain or the spine. This type poses the highest risk of brain bleeds and other complications.
• Capillary telangiectasias. These are small blood vessels, called capillaries, that are wider than usual.
• Cavernous malformations. These are blood vessels in the brain or spinal cord that are formed unusually. They look like mulberries or popcorn.
• Dural arteriovenous fistulas. These are unusual links between arteries and the tough covering over the brain or spinal cord, called dura, and a draining vein.
• Venous malformations. These are unusually enlarged veins in the brain or spinal cord. They also are called developmental venous anomalies.