Pulmonary arteriovenous malformation in children

Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) are rare abnormalities observed mainly in children with hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT). A majority of patients are asymptomatic at the time of detection. However, complications such as hypoxemia, stroke, cerebral abscess and massive hemoptysis can arise if larger PAVMs remain untreated. Larger PAVMs are usually managed successfully with embolization, although reperfusion of PAVMs have been reported post procedure. Early screening for PAVMs is recommended in asymptomatic children with HHT or those at risk for HHT. Longer term surveillance is also essential, to enable timely identification and management of PAVMs.