We proposed to attend this objectifs: Illustrate the different modalities of clinical presentation and the imaging findings in patients with Arterio-Venous Malformations (AVMs). Discuss and underline the added value of imaging in diagnosis and in clinical management.

AVMs are rare vascular lesions (ranging from 0.3% to 0.5% of the population) representing errors in vascular development resulting in dysmorphic arterial and venous vessels connected directly to one another without an intervening capillary bed (Fig. 1). They are present at birth (60%) or become so during the first few weeks of life (30%) with no difference between males and females. Contrary to haemangioma, they never regress and may grow during lifetime. AVMs may develop during early fetal period, because of the failure of regression...

Radiologic evaluation is often necessary to confirm the diagnosis, delineate the extent of the lesions, assess the flow characteristics and as a therapeutic option. Plain radiography has today a limited value, demonstrating bone involvement (asymmetric hypertrophy or atrophy, osteoporosis, or lytic lesions). Ultrasonography (US) and colour Doppler evaluations are often performed initially because of their non-invasivity and accessibility and they not require ionizing radiation and a great deal of cooperation of the patient (e.g. paediatric patients). Even if they are operator-dependent techniques, colour Doppler ultrasound...

Vascular malformations are highly complex lesions that require a highly specialized multidisciplinary approach. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial because these lesions can cause many serious problems such as congestive heart failure and acute bleeding. Radiologic evaluation (Doppler US, CT, MR imaging) is necessary to confirm the diagnosis, delineate the lesion extent and assess the flow characteristics. Interventional radiology is useful to confirm the diagnosis and to manage the lesion as therapy of choice or as an adjunct to surgery.

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Barbara Ginanni, MD ([email protected]) Department of Radiology University of Pisa