Arteriovenous malformation

An arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a tangled, abnormal connection between arteries and veins in the brain or spinal cord. Normally, blood flows from arteries to capillaries and then to veins, but in an AVM, this process is bypassed, creating a web of vessels that can dangerously disrupt blood flow. AVMs can be present from birth and may cause symptoms like headaches, seizures, or bleeding if they rupture. Because of the abnormal blood flow, AVMs can pose serious health risks, often requiring medical evaluation and treatment to prevent complications.