Iatrogenic arteriovenous fistula in an infant mimicking an arteriovenous malformation
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 16, 2025

Creating Radio-cephalic Arteriovenous Fistula in the Forearm with a Modified No-Touch Technique
Published on: April 1, 2022
Kiril Magaletsky Kharachko1, Marta Feito Rodríguez1, Nelson M Buitrago Sánchez2
1Dermatology Department, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain.
Insights
A 12-month-old infant developed leg swelling and redness, initially resembling a vascular malformation. Computed tomography revealed an iatrogenic arteriovenous fistula (AVF), highlighting unique diagnostic challenges.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Pediatric Radiology
- Interventional Cardiology
Background:
- Arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are abnormal connections between arteries and veins.
- Iatrogenic AVFs can occur as a complication of medical procedures.
- Distinguishing iatrogenic AVFs from congenital vascular anomalies is crucial for appropriate management.
Observation:
- A 12-month-old infant presented with progressive lower limb enlargement and erythema.
- Clinical presentation mimicked congenital arteriovenous malformations.
- Computed tomography imaging was essential for diagnosis.
Findings:
- Computed tomography confirmed an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) between the deep femoral artery and common femoral vein.
- The AVF was determined to be iatrogenic in origin.
- Unique imaging characteristics differentiated this iatrogenic AVF from congenital vascular entities.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering iatrogenic causes for vascular abnormalities in infants.
- Accurate imaging is critical for diagnosing iatrogenic AVFs.
- Understanding the distinct features of iatrogenic AVFs aids in differentiating them from congenital conditions, guiding treatment strategies.
Abstract:
We report the case of a 12-month-old infant who presented with progressive lower limb enlargement associated with erythema mimicking an arteriovenous malformation. Computed tomography confirmed an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) between the deep femoral artery and the common femoral vein. This case describes the unique clinical and imaging findings of iatrogenic AVF and contrasts them with other congenital vascular entities.
Related Concept Videos
Hemodialysis I: Introduction
Aneurysm I: Introduction
Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care

