[Multiple cavernoma of delayed appearance]

The authors report on a right fronto-singular cavernous angioma which appeared, in a 46 year-old woman, four years after the excision of a right rolandic localization. Diagnosis suggested on radiological findings was confirmed by histological examination. After a review of the literature the authors discuss possible mechanisms of such delayed appearance of intra-cerebral cavernous angiomas. They suggest the possibility of infraradiologic stage corresponding to a micro-malformation characterized by abnormal capillaries, which has not been yet histologically modified by hemorrhages, thrombosis, fibrosis, gliosis and calcifications.