Dural AVM

**Dural Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs)**

**Description:**

Dural AVMs are rare, congenital vascular malformations located within the dura mater, the outermost fibrous membrane covering the brain and spinal cord. They consist of a tangle of abnormal blood vessels that connect arteries directly to veins, bypassing the capillary network.

**Symptoms:**

Dural AVMs can cause a range of symptoms, including:

* Seizures
* Headaches
* Focal neurological deficits (e.g., weakness, numbness)
* Noise within the head (pulsatile tinnitus)
* Progressive symptoms in childhood and adulthood

**Diagnosis:**

Diagnosis involves detailed medical history, neurological examination, and imaging studies such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography angiography (CTA).

**Treatment:**

Treatment options for Dural AVMs include:

* Microsurgical resection
* Embolization (blocking blood flow to the malformation)
* Radiosurgery (using focused radiation to close the abnormal vessels)

**Prognosis:**

The prognosis of Dural AVMs depends on the size, location, and severity of the malformation. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are crucial for reducing the risk of complications.

**Additional Keywords:**

* Cavernous sinus
* Carotid cavernous fistula
* Transvenous embolization
* Intracranial vascular malformations
* Neurological disorders