Abstract

GARCIA MONACO, Ricardo; KREINDEL, Tamara  and  GIACHETTI, Ana. Vascular malformations: diagnostic clues for the radiologist. Rev. argent. radiol. [online]. 2012, vol.76, n.4, pp.301-313. ISSN 1852-9992.

Vascular malformations are rare conditions resulting from the abnormal development of blood vessels. These lesions, together with vascular tumors, represent the vascular anomalies. Vascular malformations are named according to which type of vessel is affected and are classified into high- or low-flow malformations on the basis of flow characteristics. Most vascular malformations are diagnosed according to clinical criteria. However, some require imaging studies to confirm the diagnosis or assess its extension. Doppler ultrasound is the usual initial study for hemodynamic assessment and for its contribution to differential diagnosis between vascular tumors and malformations. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the best technique for evaluating the extent of the lesions and their relationship with adjacent structures. An accurate diagnosis of the type of vascular malformation is of importance because of the different prognosis and treatment. Interventional radiology is one of the cornerstones in the therapeutic management. A multidisciplinary approach is highly recommended given the complexity of these lesions, particularly for selecting therapeutic options and for the patient clinical follow-up.

Keywords : Angioma; Embolization; Vascular malformations; Magnetic resonance.

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