A cavernoma is formed from abnormal blood vessels which develop into clusters. These malformation are mostly found in the brain and spine but they can be found in other locations as well , this type of cavernoma are rarer again. A cavernoma can vary in size from a few mms to several cms and a patient could only have one cavernoma which is usually classed as an incidental find, or the person can live with a cavernoma and never know that they have one. However someone could have multiple Cavernomas that can range from 2 – 100.
Cavernomas do appear to get bigger, but the cavernoma doesn’t grow. Instead they engorge themselves with blood. A cavernomas poses the threat of hemorrhaging and due to the structure of the vessels, the walls are thin and fall weak as the pressure builds caused by the blood inside them. If a hemorrhage does occur the patients symptoms may be mild but unfortunately in severe case the outcome could be fatal depending on the size and the location of the cavernoma.
Cavernomas that are symptomatic may also cause complications such as strokes, seizures, and a range of other neurological defects.
There is still not enough information and research done for clinician to determine how a cavernoma may behave, such as if a hemorrhage is impending.
A cavernoma is listed as a rare disease as 1 in 400,000 will display symptoms, however reaserch has shown that 1 in 600 have a non symptomatic cavernoma and the person is able to lead a normal happy lifestyle.
Cavernoma IS real and people have to face the struggles of coping with everyday life. A better understanding of cavernoma is needed for patients to get a adequate level of help and support.
Together we can make a change by raising awareness, getting cavernoma recognised, funding research and improving of the quality of life.
Even though it is hard to see remember that brains get sick to. Bring the condition out of the dark and into the light.
Brains Get Sick Too 