Brief Description of ISSVA Classification for Radiologists

Area of Science:

• Vascular biology and medicine.
• Medical classification systems.

Background:

• Standardized nomenclature is crucial for advancing the study and treatment of vascular anomalies.
• Existing classifications require regular updates to reflect new scientific discoveries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the 2018 International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA) classification.
• To emphasize the biologic underpinnings of vascular anomalies.
• To provide a foundation for understanding common vascular anomalies and their distinctions.

Main Methods:

• Review and adoption of the 2018 ISSVA classification.
• Summarization of key features of common vascular anomalies.
• Distinguishing between vascular tumors and vascular malformations.

Main Results:

• The 2018 ISSVA classification offers a biologically-based framework for vascular anomalies.
• Key features of prevalent vascular anomalies are summarized.
• Clear distinctions are made between vascular tumors and malformations.

Conclusions:

• The 2018 ISSVA classification serves as an updated standard for vascular anomaly research and clinical practice.
• Understanding the biologic basis is key to accurate classification.
• This classification will guide further discussions on management and technical aspects of vascular malformations.