Whether or not you should be worried about a cavernoma depends on several factors, including its size, location, and whether it is causing any symptoms.
What is a Cavernoma?
A cavernoma, also known as a cavernous malformation, is a cluster of abnormal blood vessels in the brain. They are usually benign and do not cause any problems. However, in some cases, they can rupture and cause bleeding in the brain, leading to a stroke or other neurological complications.
When to Worry
You should be more concerned about a cavernoma if:
- It is large: Larger cavernomas are more likely to rupture.
- It is located in a critical area of the brain: Cavernomas in areas like the brainstem or motor cortex can cause more serious problems if they rupture.
- It is causing symptoms: Symptoms like headaches, seizures, or weakness can indicate that a cavernoma is bleeding or is about to bleed.
What to Do
If you have been diagnosed with a cavernoma, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of treatment. Treatment options include:
- Observation: If the cavernoma is small and not causing any symptoms, your doctor may recommend monitoring it with regular scans.
- Surgery: Surgery may be an option to remove the cavernoma if it is causing symptoms or is in a critical area of the brain.
- Stereotactic radiosurgery: This non-invasive procedure uses focused radiation beams to destroy the cavernoma.
It is important to remember that most cavernomas do not cause any problems. However, it is important to be aware of the risks and to discuss your options with your doctor.
