BenignSoft tissue
Ateriovenous Malformation
Synonyms: Arteriovenous haemangioma, AVM
High-flow vascular malformation — distinguish from haemangioma (low-flow)
Quick Facts
Behaviour
Benign
Category
Soft tissue
Synonyms
- Arteriovenous haemangioma
- AVM
Category
Soft tissue
Behaviour
Benign
Gender
M = F
Tissue of Origin
Vascular
Epidemiology
- Congenital vascular malformation
- Present from birth but may manifest later
Clinical Features
- Pulsatile mass with thrill/bruit
- Warmth and redness of overlying skin
- Risk of haemorrhage
- Can cause ischaemia distally
Location
- Extremities
- Head and neck
- Viscera
Imaging
- MRI: flow voids characteristic
- Angiography: direct arteriovenous communication
- USS Doppler: high-flow lesion
Pathology
- Large thick-walled arterial and venous channels with direct communications
- No interposed capillary bed
Genetics
- KRAS, BRAF mutations in some cases
- Associated with hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT)
Treatment
- Embolisation
- Surgical resection
- Combined approach for complex lesions
Prognosis
- Benign but can recur
- Risk of haemorrhage if untreated
- Functional outcomes depend on location
Key Points
- High-flow vascular malformation — distinguish from haemangioma (low-flow)
- Pulsatile mass with bruit is classic
- Angiography is gold standard for characterisation
Workup - Blood Tests
FBC, coagulation profile
Workup - Local Imaging
- MRI with contrast
- Doppler ultrasound
- Angiography if intervention planned
Workup - Biopsy
Biopsy NOT recommended — haemorrhage risk
Workup - Staging
No staging required
Follow-up Summary
Medical disclaimer
The content on Sarcopedia is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Always consult with a qualified physician regarding any health concerns or before starting any new treatment. Reliance on any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk.