Cavernoma

Cerebral cavernous malformation

A cavernoma is an abnormal collection of blood vessels in the brain or spine

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0207 079 4344

What is a cavernoma?

A cavernoma is an abnormal collection of blood vessels in the brain or spinal cord. Also referred to as cavernous malformations, cavernomas vary in size and look a bit like mulberries.

They can sometimes compress the structures of the brain, leading to bleeding or other neurological conditions. When this happens, we at HCA UK can help.

Need to know

  • What are the symptoms of a cavernoma? icon plus

    Quite often, cavernomas won't lead to any symptoms. When they do, these might include:

    • bleeding (haemorrhage)
    • haemorrhagic stroke
    • headaches
    • seizures
    • dizziness
    • slurred speech
    • double vision
    • shaking weakness
    • numbness
    • tiredness
    • difficulty concentrating

  • How is a cavernoma diagnosed? icon plus

    People with cavernomas don't often have symptoms, so they're often only picked up on during tests for other conditions.

    However, if your GP or consultant think you may have a cavernoma, they may recommend an MRI and/or a  CT scan. Both are imaging tests which show the brain and spinal cord in great detail. 
     

  • Potential treatment options icon plus

    If you've been diagnosed with a cavernoma, your GP or neurologist will discuss your treatment options with you. They might prescribe medicines to treat symptoms like headaches and seizures.

    If you're likely to experience bleeding (haemorrhage), they might recommend neurosurgery to remove the cavernoma or stereotactic radiosurgery to target the cavernoma with radiation energy.

Our neurosciences consultants

At HCA UK we specialise in all areas of neurosciences with consultants in neurology, neurosurgery and neuroradiology working together in MDT's to manage and treat brain conditions and injuries.

Our consultants are supported by clinical nurse specialists, experienced neurology nurses and physiotherapists.


Our locations

From complex neurosurgery to diagnostic tests and medical management, we provide exceptional neurological care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.

Request an appointment

We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants in neurology or neurosurgery

Call us on

020 7079 4344
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
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