Contemporary Imaging of Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformations

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2017 Jun;208(6):1320-1330. doi: 10.2214/AJR.16.17306. Epub 2017 Mar 7.

Abstract

Objective: Brain arteriovenous malformation (AVM) rupture results in substantial morbidity and mortality. The goal of AVM treatment is eradication of the AVM, but the risk of treatment must be weighed against the risk of future hemorrhage.

Conclusion: Imaging plays a vital role by providing the information necessary for AVM management. Here, we discuss the background, natural history, clinical presentation, and imaging of AVMs. In addition, we explain advances in techniques for imaging AVMs.

Keywords: CT angiography; MR angiography; arterial spin-labeling; blood pool agents; brain arteriovenous malformation; digital subtraction angiography; time-resolved CT angiography; time-resolved MR angiography.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arteriovenous Fistula / diagnostic imaging*
  • Arteriovenous Fistula / pathology*
  • Cerebral Angiography / trends*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement
  • Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformations / diagnostic imaging*
  • Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformations / pathology*
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity