Cavernous Malformations

Overview

Cavernous malformations are abnormally formed blood vessels that have the appearance of a small mulberry in the brain or spinal cord. These malformations may be hereditary or they may occur on their own.

These malformations may leak blood, leading to bleeding in the brain (hemorrhage). This can cause neurological symptoms, depending on the location of your cavernous malformation in your nervous system. Your symptoms may include weakness or numbness in the face, arm or leg, unsteadiness, vision loss or double vision, and difficulties speaking or swallowing. Seizures also can occur. Repeat hemorrhages may occur soon after your initial hemorrhage (within weeks) or later after your initial hemorrhage (many months or years later), or repeat hemorrhages may never occur.

Why choose Mayo Clinic for cavernous malformations

• Experience. Mayo Clinic doctors trained in brain and nervous system conditions (neurologists), brain and nervous system surgery (neurosurgeons), brain imaging (neuroradiologists) and other specialties have experience diagnosing and treating people with cavernous malformations and other brain and blood vessel conditions (cerebrovascular conditions).
• Team approach. At Mayo Clinic, doctors work together as an integrated team to diagnose and treat your condition.
• Research. Mayo Clinic doctors trained in many areas study cavernous malformations and related conditions.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., is ranked among the Best Hospitals for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., and Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla., are ranked high performing for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report.

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