What is a cavernoma?
A cavernoma is a gathering of irregular blood vessels generally located in the brain and spinal cord. Cavernomas can also be known as cavernous angioma, cavernous haemangioma or cavernous malformation (CCM). Cavernomas look like raspberries and generally measure from around 2 millimeters to several centimeters in diameter.
Symptoms of cavernoma
Cavernomas may not reason a person to have any symptoms but they are often diagnosed after a person has experience symptoms and is being investigated.
- Hemorrhage
- A headache
- Seizures
- Weakness, numbness, memory issues and trouble when concentrating
What causes a cavernoma?
Cavernomas do happen without clear reason and there is no obvious reason, but there are genetic links to cavernomas but most cases are totally random. Genetic testing can be carried out on cavernomas.
Diagnosing cavernoma
Scanning is the best way to rapidly diagnosing a person for many different situations. An MRI scan may be used which will be capable to show a detailed image of the brain and spine and will show the cavernoma. Other imaging and testing are available, such as CT or angiography but MRI is preferable.
Treating the cavernoma
Treatment for a cavernoma does vary from person to person. As mentioned before, it is all about severity, symptoms and location and effective treatment will vary depending on the cavernoma.
Medication – Medication will not resolve or change a cavernoma but it will help handle the symptoms it is causing such as seizures.
Neurosurgery – Neurosurgery can be carried out to eliminate the cavernoma. There are risks involved but generally, the benefits of surgery outweigh the risks.