Vascular malformations
What is a vascular malformation?
What should I know about vascular malformations?
Vascular malformations are a result of the abnormal growth and development of blood vessels, which enlarge or form tangles or pockets. They can be present at birth (congenital malformations) or develop later in life (acquired malformations).
The four main types of vascular malformation are:
- Capillary malformations: Located in the capillaries (the smallest blood vessels in the body), they typically occur as a reddish-colored birthmark, commonly known as a port-wine stain. They are benign and can be lightened with pulsed-dye laser therapy.
- Arteriovenous malformations: Caused by abnormal connections between the arteries and veins, they can form anywhere in the body. They carry higher risks in terms of complications and prognosis.
- Venous malformations: Consist in an oversized network of veins located in the subcutaneous tissues, the muscles or the joints. They can cause symptoms such as pain, swelling and cosmetic discomfort.
- Lymphatic malformations: Less frequent, they affect the lymphatic system and generally appear as masses in the arms or legs, caused by lymph that is unable to drain. They most frequently appear as lymphedema in a lower limb.
Because each type of vascular malformation may require a different therapeutic approach, knowing which type is affecting a patient is essential in order to determine the best treatment plan.
What are the symptoms of vascular malformations?
The symptoms of vascular malformations vary depending on the type, size and location of the malformation.
Capillary malformations:
- Reddish or purplish birthmarks (port-wine stains)
- Local swelling
- Increased sensitivity to pain or extreme temperatures
Arteriovenous malformations:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Visible or palpable pulsing
- Skin ulcers
- Risk of internal or external hemorrhage in the event of rupture
Venous malformations:
- Swelling in the limbs
- Pain or a sensation of heaviness in the affected area
- Varices at the skin’s surface
- Skin that appears darker (hyperpigmentation)
Lymphatic malformations:
- Persistent, significant swelling (lymphedema)
- Skin that appears thicker and with “folds”
- Recurrent skin infections
These symptoms vary in severity and intensity from one individual to the next (certain patients may have few or no symptoms at all). It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional to establish an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan if a vascular malformation is suspected.
What are the risk factors and causes of vascular malformations?
Vascular malformations are usually congenital anomalies whose exact cause can be difficult to identify and varies from one patient to the next. Risk factors include genetic influences, hormonal changes, trauma, embryonic development disorders and environmental factors.
Vascular malformations can occur in anyone, regardless of their age, gender and ethnic group, though some types may be associated with underlying medical conditions. If you have symptoms or a family history of vascular malformations, consult a healthcare professional for an in-depth assessment.
How are vascular malformations diagnosed at the American Hospital of Paris?
The American Hospital of Paris uses a multidisciplinary approach combined with advanced imaging techniques to diagnose vascular malformations.
We evaluate our patients by taking their complete medical history and performing an in-depth clinical examination. Each case is thoroughly reviewed by a team of professionals working together to define a customized treatment plan.
We use advanced imaging tests including Doppler-ultrasound, MRI and CT angiogram to obtain detailed pictures of the vascular malformations. If necessary, we also perform biopsies to confirm the diagnosis.
Complex cases are discussed by our different specialists during multidisciplinary team meetings. Together we define an optimal personalized treatment plan for each patient. This integrated approach, combined with our multidisciplinary medical team’s expertise, guarantees accurate diagnoses and treatment plans that are adapted to each patient to ensure the best possible clinical outcomes.
What treatments for vascular malformations are available at the American Hospital of Paris?
At the American Hospital of Paris, we offer a complete array of treatments for vascular malformations, adapted to each patient based on the nature and severity of their condition. This approach aims to ensure the best possible outcomes while minimizing the risks for our patients.
For cutaneous vascular malformations like port-wine stains, we offer noninvasive solutions such as pulsed-dye laser therapy, which can reduce the size and visibility of the malformation.
For more complex arteriovenous and venous malformations, our team of specialists offers more advanced treatments. These may include embolization techniques which involve blocking the flow of blood to the malformation in order to eliminate it. In certain cases, a surgical procedure may be necessary to remove the vascular malformation, especially if it is large or combined with serious complications.
Regardless of the type of vascular malformation, our aim is to provide comprehensive, personalized care to patients, with an emphasis on safety, efficacy and comfort.
