talk later Vascular malformation The brain is made up of abnormal blood vessels that coalesce to form small blood-filled cavities. While some cavernomas remain asymptomatic, others may Severe symptoms, such as seizures, Severe headache or neurological deficitsDepending on its size and location. This condition, which People’s lives can be compromisedCareful diagnosis and follow-up are needed to prevent complications and improve the patient’s quality of life.
To learn more about this medical condition, we spoke Dr. Juan Buendia, neurologist at Sanitas Murcia Medical Center.
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In some cases, cavernomas are caused by a genetic disorder called familial cerebral cavernomatosis, and the risk is that multiple cavernomas may develop throughout life.
What are cavernomas?
It is a vascular malformation of the brain consisting of small dilated blood vessels that form blood-filled cavities. These cavities usually cause bleeding or pressure in areas near the brain.
What is the role of genetics in these cases?
In some cases they are inherited as part of a genetic disorder Familial cerebral cavernomatosis. People with this condition have mutations in certain genes, such as CCM1, CCM2 or CCM3, which control the formation of blood vessels in the brain. This genetic predisposition increases the risk Multiple cavernomas develop whole life
However, not all of them have a genetic origin.
Symptoms of cavernomas
People with cavernomas may experience similar symptoms Seizures, severe headache, Dizziness or loss of balance, and neurological problems such as weakness in limbs or difficulty speaking.
in some cases, If it bleeds or puts pressure on certain areas of the brainMore severe neurological deficits may occur.
However, many of them are asymptomatic and are discovered during imaging studies for other reasons. The severity of symptoms depends on the location and size of the cavernoma.
© Getty ImagesFactors that increase the risk of complications
he Size and location of deformityEspecially if it is in critical or deep brain areas. A history of previous bleeding increases the risk of future bleeding events.
Furthermore, genetic predisposition, viz Familial cavernomatosisMay increase the likelihood of multiple cavernomas, which increases the risk of complications.
Finally, age and the presence of other medical problems also affect prognosis.
A patient’s quality of life will depend on the symptoms caused by cavernomas, which may affect daily activities, cause neurological deficits, or affect mobility.
How cavernomas affect quality of life
The truth is that it depends on the symptoms it causes. For example, seizures limit the ability to drive or perform activities that require full concentration. D headache Or dizziness makes work difficult or daily activities, when neurological deficits, e.g Weakness or balance problems, Affects mobility.
Regarding physical activity, experts generally recommend Avoid high impact sports or activities with risk of falls to prevent possible complications.
Treatment of cavernomas
First, through observation Regular MRIEspecially in asymptomatic cases or with mild symptoms.
Secondly, the Pharmacological management It is useful for controlling seizures, one of the most common symptoms, with antiepileptic drugs.
Finally, the Stereotactic radiosurgeryLike the gamma knife, it can be considered for the treatment of surgically inaccessible cavernomas, although its use remains controversial due to the risk of damage to surrounding tissues.
When they need surgery and when they need observation
Cases causing cavernomas require surgical intervention Repeated bleedingSeizures not controlled by medication or progressive neurological deficits due to its complex location. If the cavernoma is in an accessible area of the brain and the risk of complications is low, surgery may be the best option.
On the other hand, it is preferred in asymptomatic cases or mild symptoms Monitor with regular imageBecause some cavernomas do not grow or worsen over time, the risks of surgery may outweigh the benefits.
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in advance
Advances in imaging techniques, viz High resolution MRI, They allow identifying small cavernomas and monitoring their evolution with greater precision.
In addition, stereotactic radiosurgery has been developed as a noninvasive option for the treatment of difficult-to-operate cavernomas. D Genetic research They are advancing, allowing a better understanding of hereditary cases and opening the door to future targeted treatments.
Finally can be said the development of new Most effective anticonvulsant drugs And it also improves symptom control with fewer side effects.
Keeping blood pressure under control and managing stress properly is important because increased stress can increase the risk of bleeding.
Practice to avoid the risk of complications
Without a doubt, wearing one Healthy lifestyle Helps reduce the risk of complications in people with cavernomas.
In this sense, it is essential to avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these factors can worsen vascular health. Maintaining adequate blood pressure control and managing stress are also important, as increased stress can increase the risk of bleeding.
Likewise, follow appropriate treatment to control seizures and Attend regular check ups with a neurologist This allows detecting possible changes in the cavernoma in time.
