Definition

A cavernous malformation is a cluster of thin-walled blood vessels in the brain or spine that can leak or bleed.

Prevalence

Occurs in 0.5% of the population. May be sporadic or familial.

Symptoms

• Seizures

• Headaches

• Weakness or numbness

• Vision or speech problems

• Symptoms may fluctuate if small bleeds occur

Diagnosis

• MRI with gradient-echo or SWI sequences

• Genetic testing for familial cases

• Detailed neurological evaluation

Treatment Options

• Observation for asymptomatic lesions

• Anti-seizure medication

• Microsurgical removal for accessible symptomatic lesions

• Radiosurgery only in select cases