Vascular Malformations of the Brain

Vascular malformations of the brain are congenital abnormalities involving the blood vessels within the brain. These malformations are present at birth but may be diagnosed later in life. The term encompasses several distinct types of vascular anomalies, including arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), cavernous malformations, capillary telangiectasias, and developmental venous anomalies. These lesions differ in their structure, clinical significance, and risk of complications such as bleeding. The modern preferred terminology classifies these malformations based on vessel type and flow characteristics rather than using older eponyms.