Vein of Galen Arteriovenous Malformation in a Neonate

The vein of Galen is the most common type of arteriovenous malformation in the fetus and neonate. Most vein of Galen arteriovenous malformations (VGAMs) are diagnosed in the neonatal period, with the remainder being identified in early childhood, typically via computed tomography scan. The VGAM is found in five different patterns where the vein of Galen and straight sinus extending to the torcula Herophili are dilated. This dilation can lead to significant compression of the posterior fossa structures. Clinically, the infant with this malformation can present with seizures or most commonly, high output cardiac failure. It is important, however, to keep a broad differential diagnosis as more prevalent neonatal conditions arise similarly. These conditions can include developmental delay, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, superior vena cava syndrome, hemangioendothelioma, and other arteriovenous fistulae. Treatment begins with early diagnosis and testing of initial sequelae. This is often accomplished in consultation with different pediatric subspecialists, particularly neurologists and cardiologists. The mainstay of therapy is with neurosurgical intervention. Although the mortality of a fetus or neonate with VGAM is very high, prognosis is dependent on the size of the malformation, age at diagnosis, and successful neurosurgical outcome.