E1843. A Review of Intracranial Vascular Malformations
Authors
Richard Covington;
University of Mississippi Medical Center
Baylor Obert;
University of Mississippi Medical Center
Aubrey Smyly;
University of Mississippi Medical Center
Elliot Varney;
University of Mississippi Medical Center
Candace Howard;
University of Mississippi Medical Center
Background
Intracranial vascular malformations are a rare, but potentially serious, group of abnormal vascular lesions occurring throughout the brain and brainstem. These include, but are not limited to, arteriovenous malformations, cavernous malformations, developmental venous anomalies, and cerebral capillary telangiectasias. The majority of these malformations are benign but range from being asymptomatic to causing deadly cerebral hemorrhage. Imaging findings and symptomatology of these various lesions often mimic one another which can be challenging to the diagnostician. Understanding the typical appearance and specific imaging nuances is essential in proper diagnosis and ultimate treatment for these abnormalities.
Educational Goals / Teaching Points
The purpose of this exhibit is to educate the viewer on optimal imaging protocols, pathology, characteristic appearance, and image-guided therapies of typical intracranial vascular malformations. Participants will have a thorough understanding of the role imaging plays in diagnosis and treatment of these malformations.
Key Anatomic/Physiologic Issues and Imaging Findings/Techniques
We discuss the mainstays of imaging for cerebrovascular lesions, which are CT, MRI, and angiography. Often times, multiple scans are required, either at different time points or with multiple modalities to best characterize these abnormalities. We review each imaging modality and its respective protocols based on literary review. Many of these lesions can coexist with one another and many are solitary. Several mimic each other and can only be distinguished with minute subtleties. We review the distinctions of findings and common anatomic locations of each malformation so that the diagnostician can reliably apply search patterns and prevent errors in diagnosis. As many of the treatment options are imaging based (i.e., endovascular management), we also will review prognosis and image-guided therapy techniques.
Conclusion
This exhibit will review the pathology, proper imaging modalities, imaging findings, and image-guided therapeutic techniques for many intracranial vascular malformations.
