Cavernous Malformation

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Cavernous malformations occur in 0.3-0.5% of the population and in 1/200 people between the ages of 30-50. Pathologically, a cavernoma contains vascular channels without the typical architecture of normal blood vessels. Headache, bleeding and seizures are the most common presenting events although a proportion of lesions are discovered incidentally. Hemorrhage rates range from 0.5% to 6% annually; bleeding rates are higher in brainstem cavernomas or in those that had bled previously. Apart from surveillance of asymptomatic lesions, treatment is limited to surgery and is indicated in patients with hemorrhagic lesions, in those with intractable seizures or who have suffered from a neurological disability.

The video below illustrates techniques necessary to safely remove a cavernous malformation deep to the primary motor cortex.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cavernous Malformations

What is a cavernous malformation?

A cavernoma is a cluster of abnormal vascular channels that lack the normal architecture of healthy blood vessels. They occur in roughly 0.3–0.5% of people.

What are the symptoms of a cavernous malformation?

The most common presenting events are headache, bleeding, and seizures — though some cavernomas are found incidentally with no symptoms.

How is a cavernous malformation treated?

Asymptomatic lesions are usually monitored. Surgery is the treatment option and is generally considered for lesions that have bled, cause intractable seizures, or have led to a neurological disability. (Bleeding risk is higher in brainstem cavernomas and in those that have bled before.)

Source: NIH / StatPearls

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