Glioblastoma simulating an arteriovenous malformation: a case report

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Vascular Neurology

Background:

• Glioblastoma is the most common primary malignant brain tumor in adults, characterized by astrocyte proliferation.
• Microvascular endothelial proliferation is a key diagnostic criterion for glioblastoma.
• Hypervascular glioblastoma can rarely mimic an arteriovenous malformation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a rare case of glioblastoma with features simulating an arteriovenous malformation.
• To discuss the diagnostic and management challenges of such a presentation.

Main Methods:

• Case presentation of a 44-year-old patient with progressive headaches and visual decline.
• Cerebral imaging including angiography to evaluate the suspected arteriovenous malformation.
• Surgical biopsy for histological diagnosis, followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Main Results:

• Cerebral imaging suggested a right parieto-occipital process, possibly an arteriovenous malformation.
• Histopathological examination confirmed glioblastoma.
• The patient showed good clinical evolution following multimodal treatment.

Conclusions:

• The coexistence of arteriovenous malformation and glioblastoma is a rare association.
• The underlying pathophysiology of this combined presentation requires further investigation.