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Published on: November 18, 2018
Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome presenting with pulmonary arteriovenous fistula
1Department of Radiology, Sisli Etfal Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey. halefoglu@hotmail.com
Abstract:
A pulmonary arteriovenous fistula is an abnormal connection between pulmonary arteries and veins. Patients with Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome may present with this vascular malformation, which is a typical finding of the disease. Approximately 5-15% of Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome patients have pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (AVM) and there is usually a family history of AVM in these patients. The malformations are usually located in the lower lobes. In this paper, I describe a 49-year-old male patient with dyspnoea, cough, haemoptysis and epistaxis. Physical examination showed nasal telangiectasias, cyanosis of the lips and nails, and a systolic bruit over the left lung. Chest X-ray revealed a 5-cm mass in the left lower lobe and after magnetic resonance examination, together with 3-D magnetic resonance angiography, it was demonstrated to be a pulmonary arteriovenous fistula. The history of a niece with a similiar history of suspected pulmonary arteriovenous fistula led me to consider the possibility of Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome presenting with a pulmonary arteriovenous fistula.
Insights
Pulmonary arteriovenous fistulas are abnormal connections in the lungs. This case highlights Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome as a potential cause, especially with a family history.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Genetics
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Pulmonary arteriovenous fistulas (PAVF) are abnormal vascular connections between pulmonary arteries and veins.
- Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome (Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder associated with vascular malformations, including PAVF.
Observation:
- A 49-year-old male presented with dyspnea, cough, hemoptysis, and epistaxis.
- Physical examination revealed nasal telangiectasias, cyanosis, and a left-sided systolic bruit.
- Imaging confirmed a 5-cm pulmonary arteriovenous fistula in the left lower lobe.
Findings:
- The patient's symptoms and physical findings were consistent with a PAVF.
- A family history of a niece with a suspected PAVF suggested a possible genetic link.
- The diagnosis of Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome was considered due to the presence of PAVF and suggestive family history.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome in patients with PAVF, particularly those with a family history.
- Early diagnosis and management of PAVF in Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome are crucial to prevent complications.
- Further research into the genetic basis and clinical manifestations of PAVF in Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome is warranted.
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