What is cerebral cavernoma?
Cerebral cavernoma, also known as cavernous angiomas, is a vascular malformation that appears during brain development. The cavernoma evolves to cause problems in the brain and spinal cord and its size can vary from 2 millimeters to several centimeters.
On the other hand, cavernomas may be single lesions or there may be several malformations around different regions of the brain. In this case it is known as multiple cavernomatosis.
Symptoms
Although it is most common to experience certain symptoms, such as those detailed below, cavernomas can also develop without apparent symptoms.
The most common are:
- Seizures.
- Vision or focus problems.
- Weakness and fatigue.
- Severe headache.
- Difficulty speaking and understanding others.
However, the signs and symptoms should be evaluated by a specialist and it is advisable to see a doctor if the patient presents:
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Numbness on one side of the body.
- Sudden, severe headache.
- Loss of vision or double vision.
- Difficulties with balance.
Causes
Although it responds to hereditary causes, cerebral cavernous malformations can also appear on their own. And to a lesser extent, cavernous malformations can appear after focal brain radiation therapy.
Diagnosis
There are different diagnostic methods for cerebral cavernoma. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most commonly used technique, as it allows the detection of hemosiderin with great sensitivity.
MRI is used only in some cases and is mainly used to observe the possible multiple lesions in patients with cerebral cavernoma.
Treatment
The best treatment is prevention. To this end, it is essential to visit the doctor regularly and have the appropriate check-ups. If the disease has already been diagnosed, it is advisable to have an MRI scan every five years to monitor the evolution of the cavernoma.
For those cases in which the lesion causes neurological deficits or cerebral hemorrhages, surgical excision will be required whenever possible.
Which specialist treats it?
The neurosurgeon is the specialist in charge of the diagnosis and evaluation of brain cavernoma.