Extensive Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformation Presenting as a Small Cutaneous Lesion on the Forehead
December 2008
in “
Clinical and Experimental Dermatology
”
TLDR A small forehead lesion led to the discovery of a significant brain arteriovenous malformation in a young girl.
In the document, a case of a 10-year-old girl with a small cutaneous lesion on her forehead, initially considered a cosmetic issue, is reported. Upon further examination and history of severe headaches, an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) was suspected. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and angiography confirmed a substantial AVM in the right frontotemporal region and a separate AVM related to the forehead lesion. The patient was referred for neurosurgical consultation, with radiosurgery planned for the frontotemporal lesion and potential endovascular treatment for the cutaneous AVM. The document emphasizes that cutaneous AVMs, particularly in the facial region, may indicate more extensive cerebral involvement. Clinicians are advised to consider cerebral imaging in patients with facial AVMs and a history of severe headaches to facilitate early intervention and prevent serious complications like intracranial hemorrhage.