Also known as intracranial venous malformations, venous angiomas involve the abnormal arrangement of veins within the brain. These veins can take on a wheel and spoke configuration or may be compared to the mythical figure Medusa in appearance (due to the resemblance of snakes).
While most often appearing in the brain and spinal cord, venous angiomas can also be present in other areas of the body.
Venous angiomas result from congenital factors that can affect how veins are formed in utero. Certain genetic markers may also play a role in their development.
Many people who experience venous angiomas do not require treatment. Many people with the condition only discover it after the fact, often while undergoing testing for another brain condition.
In the event treatment is necessary, doctors may recommend surgery or medication. Medications can include:
Medications and other treatments are only recommended when a person experiences symptoms related to the venous angioma. These symptoms can include seizures and haemorrhages related to the malformation.