Diagnostic imaging of cerebral cavernous angioma : case report and review of the literature

Background: Cerebrovascular malformations are classified as cavernous malformations, arteriovenous malformations, developmental venous anomalies and capillary telangiectasias. Cavernous angioma is the second most common form of cerebrovascular malformations and constitutes up to 10-15% of the total incidence rate. Clinical features include epilepsy, focal deficits, headaches, or hemorrhages; cavernous angioma may also remain clinically silent. Case Report: Presented is a rare case of multiple cerebral cavernous angioma enhanced in computed tomography and magnetic resonanse scans following intravenous infusion of contrast medium, also visible in angiography. Conclusions: Magnetic resonance making use of the T2* GRE sequence with long TE is the best imaging tool of cerebral cavernous angioma. In rare cases, pathology may be revealed by cerebral angiography and angio-CT