What is cavernous malformation?

[Jagsbabydoll]

What is cavernous malformation?  What causes this? What is the cure?

[Dr Rajgopal]

Hi,
Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are collections of small blood vessels (capillaries) in the brain that are enlarged and irregular in structure. These capillaries have abnormally thin walls that are prone to leak. They also lack other support tissues, such as elastic fibers, which normally make them stretchy. As a result, when the capillaries fill with blood, they stretch out and may not return to their normal size when the blood vessels empty. Cavernous malformations can occur anywhere in the body, but usually produce serious signs and symptoms only when they occur in the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord).Approximately 25 percent of individuals with cerebral cavernous malformations never experience any related medical problems. Other people with cerebral cavernous malformations may experience serious symptoms such as headaches, seizures, paralysis, hearing or vision deficiencies, and bleeding in the brain (cerebral hemorrhage). Severe brain hemorrhages can result in death. The location and number of cerebral cavernous malformations determine the severity of this disorder. These malformations can change in size and number over time, but they do not become cancerous. Mutations in the CCM2, KRIT1, and PDCD10 genes cause cerebral cavernous malformation. The main treatment options for cavernous malformations are observation and surgery. In rare instances, patients may benefit from stereotactic radiosurgery. A team of cerebrovascular specialists (neurologists, neurosurgeons, neuroradiologists) discuss treatment options with patients and their families and jointly decide the best treatment plan. Please consult a neurosurgeon for the treatment plan . Hope this helps you . Take care and regards !