Cerebral Cavernous Hemangioma, also known as Cerebral Cavernous Malformation (CCM) or Cavernoma, is a vascular abnormality that occurs in the brain, characterized by the formation of abnormal blood vessels known as cavernous hemangiomas. It is a non-cancerous, congenital condition that is present at birth and often remains asymptomatic. Cerebral cavernous hemangiomas are made up of clusters of dilated blood vessels with thin walls, resembling small "caverns" or sacs filled with blood.
These cavernous hemangiomas can occur anywhere within the brain and may vary in size. In some cases, individuals may have multiple lesions, while others may have just one. The cause of cerebral cavernous hemangiomas is currently not fully understood, but it is believed to involve genetic mutations that affect blood vessel development in the brain.
Symptoms and complications associated with cerebral cavernous hemangiomas can vary widely. Some individuals may experience no symptoms at all, while others may present with seizures, headaches, focal neurological deficits, or more severe symptoms such as hemorrhages or strokes. Diagnosis of cerebral cavernous hemangiomas typically involves neuroimaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans.
Treatment options for cerebral cavernous hemangiomas depend on various factors including symptoms, location, size, and risk of complications. In some cases, conservative management with regular monitoring may be recommended. However, if symptoms are severe, surgical interventions like microsurgical resection or stereotactic radiosurgery may be considered to remove or treat the cavernous hemangioma, respectively. Genetic counseling is also important for individuals with cerebral cavernous hemangiomas to assess the risk of passing on the
