From the aerospace medicine residents' teaching file. Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations

A USAF transport pilot was referred to the Aeromedical Consult Service for a cardiology work-up. During his evaluation for an abnormal treadmill, a chest X-ray showed a probable pulmonary arteriovenous malformation (PAVM). A CT scan of his chest and a shunt study confirmed this diagnosis. The aviator was referred for treatment and later underwent successful balloon embolization therapy. A discussion of PAVM presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and aeromedical aspects follows.