Imaging Cavernous Malformations

Abstract

This unit describes a for evaluating cavernous malformations (CMs). CMs represent ˜10% to 15% of vascular malformations. They consist of enlarged sinusoidal vascular spaces that have thin walls devoid of smooth muscle and normal endothelium. These form compact masses within central nervous system (CNS) parenchyma or associated structures without normal interspersed tissue. The thin walls lack normal endothelium and are prone to leakage of blood elements.