With vein of Galen malformations, arteries in the brain attach to veins, as opposed to capillaries (which are smaller blood vessels that control the speed and pressure at which blood flows). VGM is most often diagnosed immediately after birth, but symptoms can also present in the first months after a child is born.
VGM typically occurs during the first trimester of pregnancy and is believed to have a genetic component. However, the exact cause of the condition is not known. While symptoms of VGM can depend on the severity of the condition, common health effects include:
VGM can also cause issues with development and can be life-threatening when the condition is severe. In this case, doctors will recommend immediate treatment to remedy the issue and prevent worsening health effects.
The majority of VGM cases are treated with a minimally invasive embolization procedure. Using a catheter, doctors can impede blood flow by injecting materials into the vessels that attach to the VGM.
Doctors can sometimes prescribe medication to treat health effects caused by the condition. If seizures are an issue, doctors may recommend antiepileptic drugs. These include:
If the function of other organs, such as the heart, is affected by VGM, doctors can prescribe medications to limit potential health issues. Your physician may also recommend monitoring if the VGM is not causing serious effects.