Print OverviewCentral nervous system vascular malformations are rare abnormalities of blood vessels in your brain or spinal cord and their membranes. There are several types of central nervous system vascular malformations, including: Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). Arteriovenous malformations are abnormal tangles of blood vessels connecting arteries and veins. AVMs may occur anywhere in the body but most often occur in or near the brain or the spine. Capillary telangiectasias. Capillary telangiectasias are small dilated blood vessels (capillaries). Cavernous malformations. Cavernous malformations are abnormally formed blood vessels in your brain or spinal cord that have the appearance of a mulberry. Dural arteriovenous fistulas. Dural arteriovenous fistulas are abnormal connections between arteries and the tough covering over the brain or spinal cord (dura) and a draining vein. Venous malformations. Venous malformations, also known as developmental venous anomalies, are abnormally enlarged veins in your brain or spinal cord. Products & ServicesBook: Mayo Clinic Family Health Book, 5th EditionNewsletter: Mayo Clinic Health Letter — Digital EditionShow more products from Mayo Clinic By Mayo Clinic Staff Central nervous system vascular malformations care at Mayo Clinic Request an appointment Doctors & departments May 28, 2021 Print Share on: FacebookTwitter Show references Singer RJ et al. Vascular malformations of the central nervous system. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed April 12, 2021. Arteriovenous malformations and other vascular lesion. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Arteriovenous-Malformation-Fact-Sheet. Accessed April 12, 2021. Brown AY. Allscripts EPSi. Mayo Clinic. April 13, 2021. Related Products & Services Book: Mayo Clinic Family Health Book, 5th Edition Newsletter: Mayo Clinic Health Letter — Digital Edition Show more products and services from Mayo Clinic Central nervous system vascular malformationsSymptoms & causesDoctors & departmentsCare at Mayo Clinic Advertisement Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Advertising & Sponsorship Policy Opportunities Ad Choices Mayo Clinic Press Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press. Mayo Clinic on Incontinence - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic on IncontinenceNEW – Mayo Clinic on High Blood Pressure - Mayo Clinic PressNEW – Mayo Clinic on High Blood PressureMayo Clinic on Hearing and Balance - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic on Hearing and BalanceFREE Mayo Clinic Diet Assessment - Mayo Clinic PressFREE Mayo Clinic Diet AssessmentMayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book CON-20301691 Patient Care & Health Information Diseases & Conditions Central nervous system vascular malformations