Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs)
What is it?
These are lesions characterized by abnormal communication between the arteries and the pulmonary veins, followed by the passage of unoxygenated blood from the right side of the heart to the left.
Which are the symptoms?
Patients with congenital vascular malformations may have diffuse angiomas of the skin and mucous membranes (Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome), hemoptysis, shortness of breath on exertion, heart failure, brain abscesses, or stroke.
How is it diagnosed?
The most effective methods are CT and MRI of the chest. A simple chest x-ray cannot distinguish a malformation from a solid mass.
Suggested exams
How is it treated?
Treatment consists of percutaneous vascular occlusion (embolization) in cases of localized disease and minor malformations. In all other cases, surgical resection of the affected area of the lung parenchyma is indicated.
Where do we treat it?
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