Vascular Malformations of the Brain

IN this issue of the Journal , Rigamonti et al. 1 draw attention to the familial prevalence and diagnostic features of cavernous malformations, a distinctive form of cerebral vascular anomaly. Vascular malformations of the brain are broadly classified in four categories. In descending order of incidence, they are arteriovenous malformations, cavernous malformations, venous malformations, and the telangiectasias. This generally accepted nomenclature derives from the differences in histopathological characteristics and in appearance on angiograms, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and CT scans. The usual clinical course varies with each type, as must plans for management. 2 Except for arteriovenous fistulas caused by trauma, all . . .