When Formation of Cerebral Vasculature Goes Aberrant -- A Pictorial Essay.

Vascular malformations of the brain are aberrant vascular connections that are most likely congenital. Cerebral vascular malformations are the umbrella term for multiple conditions, each with different symptoms, signs, and imaging characteristics. These conditions are (1) Arteriovenous malformations, abnormal arteries, and veins; (2) Dural arteriovenous fistula; (3) Developmental venous anomalies; (4) Cavernous malformations, enlarged blood-filled spaces; (5) Cavernous angiomas, abnormal veins; (6) capillary telangiectasias, enlarged capillary-sized vessels; (7) vein of Galen malformations; and (8) mixed malformations. It is important to study the complications of each and their mimics to make an accurate diagnosis. Various imaging features of different vascular malformations seen on MRI are discussed that which would aid in diagnosis and planning management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]