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Arteriovenous Malformations |
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 Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment
Signs and Symptoms Although people are generally born with arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), they may not experience symptoms for many years, anywhere between age 10 and 40.
However, symptoms of AVM can occur at any age, as is the case for one of the most severe forms of the disease, called a vein of Galen malformation. This condition may cause symptoms at birth or very soon thereafter. Symptoms may include swelling of the brain, seizures, failure to thrive, congestive heart failure and swollen veins.
Each person may experience symptoms differently, depending mostly on the location of the AVM. However, some of the most common symptoms may include:
- Headache, varying in severity, duration and intensity
- Stroke
- Seizures, which may be partial or total and may cause a loss of movement control and consciousness, as well as convulsions
- Muscle weakness or paralysis in one part of the body
- Loss of coordination, known as ataxia
- Dizziness
- Visual disturbances, such as partial loss of eye sight or lack of eye moment control
- Abnormal sensations, such as numbness, tingling or spontaneous pain
Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Children's Hospital.
Last updated May 8, 2007
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