The Clinical Characteristics and Treatment of Cerebral Microarteriovenous Malformation Presenting with Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Series of 13 Cases

Abstract

Object. The aim of this report was to explore the clinical presentation, radiological features, treatment methods, and outcome of micro-AVMs presenting with intracerebral hemorrhage.Methods. The clinical data, radiological features, treatment, and follow-up results for a consecutive series of 13 cases with micro-AVMs were retrospectively analyzed.Results. All 13 patients presented with intracerebral hemorrhage. Ten cases were confirmed by enhanced thin layer CT scanning and CTA, and the other 3 cases were confirmed by DSA. Treatment consisted of surgical removal in 10 cases, endovascular embolization in 1, and radiosurgery in 2. The modified GOS score was achieved in the third month after discharge: 10 cases were rated with 5 points (good recovery), 1 case was rated with 4 points (mild disability), and 2 cases were rated with 3 points (severe disability). During follow-up, No case of rebleeding was reported.Conclusions. Intracerebral hemorrhage is the main clinical manifestation of micro-AVMs. It is beneficial to find a tiny nidus of dense vessels located on hematoma wall on enhanced thin layer CT scanning for a clear diagnosis and to detect any abnormal feeding artery or venous drainage for an indirect diagnostic evidence. Resection is the main method of treatment for micro-AVMs.