Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations and their mimics.

Area of Science:

• Vascular Medicine
• Radiology
• Genetics

Background:

• Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) are abnormal connections between pulmonary arteries and veins.
• These shunts can cause hypoxemia and are frequently associated with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT).
• PAVMs pose risks of serious morbidity and mortality, primarily due to cerebrovascular complications from paradoxical embolization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diagnostic imaging of PAVMs.
• To highlight conditions that mimic PAVMs on imaging.
• To improve recognition and timely treatment of PAVMs.

Main Methods:

• Review of imaging findings of PAVMs.
• Comparison with imaging of other vascular and non-vascular diseases.
• Discussion of diagnostic challenges and differential diagnoses.

Main Results:

• PAVMs present characteristic but not always definitive appearances on chest radiographs.
• CT imaging is diagnostic for PAVMs.
• Several vascular and non-vascular conditions can be mistaken for PAVMs.

Conclusions:

• Early recognition and treatment of PAVMs, even asymptomatic ones, are crucial.
• Awareness of PAVM mimics is essential for accurate diagnosis.
• Improved diagnostic strategies can prevent serious complications.