Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 3, 2025
Comprehensive Endovascular and Open Surgical Management of Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformations
Published on: October 20, 2017
[Surgery for Right Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformation with Recurrent Brain Abscess:Report of a Case]
Yuuki Kou1, Hirokazu Tanaka, Nobuhisa Yamazaki
1Department of Thoracic Surgery, Japanese Red Cross Osaka Hospital, Osaka, Japan.
Abstract:
A 68-year-old man was referred to our hospital for further examination for chest abnormal shadow in the right lung field. He had a past history of subarachnoid hemorrhage. He was diagnosed with pulmonary arteriovenous malformation (PAVM) and recommended early treatment, but he didnot accept immediate surgical treatment. Three months later, he was transferred to other hospital emergently to treat nausea and dizziness. After being diagnosed with cerebellum abscess, external drainage was performed at our hospital. First drainage had a temporary efficacy, so second drainage was performed before referring to our department. Considering his condition and brain abscess, surgery for PAVM was done.
Insights
A patient with pulmonary arteriovenous malformation (PAVM) developed a brain abscess after delaying treatment. Surgical intervention for both conditions was successfully performed, highlighting the importance of timely PAVM management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) are abnormal connections between pulmonary arteries and veins.
- PAVMs can lead to paradoxical embolism, causing neurological complications such as brain abscess.
- Delayed treatment of PAVMs increases the risk of serious adverse events.
Observation:
- A 68-year-old male with a history of subarachnoid hemorrhage presented with a right lung mass.
- The patient was diagnosed with PAVM but deferred surgical treatment.
- He subsequently developed nausea and dizziness, leading to a diagnosis of cerebellar abscess.
Findings:
- The patient underwent external drainage for the cerebellar abscess, with temporary improvement.
- Surgical resection of the PAVM was performed concurrently with management of the brain abscess.
- Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of PAVM.
Implications:
- This case underscores the critical need for timely intervention in patients diagnosed with PAVM to prevent potentially life-threatening neurological complications.
- Multidisciplinary management is essential for patients with concurrent PAVM and brain abscess.
- Early surgical treatment of PAVM can mitigate the risk of paradoxical embolism and subsequent neurological sequelae.
