Posted by CCF Neurosurgery MD on January 05, 1998 at 09:56:38:

In Reply to: Hemangiomas posted by Fek on January 05, 1998 at 02:32:04:

: Is it possible to distinguish between a veinous angioma and a cavernous angioma prior to surgery? Would an angiogram help?

Also, do veinous angiomas hemorrhage? I've read conflicting reports -- I hemorrhaged last year. Does that mean I necessarily have a cavernous angioma associated with my veinous angioma?

Thank you.
___

Venous angiomas and cavernous angiomas are similar in that they are part of
a spectrum of venous anomalies. Venous angiomas don't usually bleed while
cavernous angiomas have a much higher tendency to bleed. Cavernous angiomas
will commonly show a 'popcorn' shaped lesion on an MRI and are usually calcified.
An angiogram is unnecessary if the MRI is suggestive for a cavernous angioma.
Cavernous angiomas may present with seizures and bleeding. Venous angiomas
are usually benign and are best left alone.

Speak to your physician about what you may have and the options for management.

Good luck.