Arteriovenous malformation

An arteriovenous malformation is an abnormal network of blood vessels and veins in the brain, brain stem, or spinal cord. It is present at birth (congenital).

The vessel walls of an arteriovenous malformation may become weak and leak or burst, causing bleeding in or around the brain or spinal cord.


Author: Jan Nissl, RN, BSLast Updated: February 13, 2008
Medical Review: William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Donald R. Mintz, MD - Otolaryngology

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