Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations

Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) are uncommon lesions, but are the cause of considerable morbidity and occasional mortality. They most commonly occur in association with hereditary haemorrhagic telangectasia and screening of families with this condition is therefore important. Embolization of PAVMs by coils is a well tolerated effective procedure with a low complication rate in skilled hands. Treatment results in both symptomatic and physiological improvement, and evidence for a reduction in stroke and cerebral abscess is accumulating. Radiological techniques now represent the primary treatment of choice, with surgical resection rarely required.