What are the dangers of vascular malformations?
Disease description:
I saw online that some people are born with vascular malformations. I'd like to ask the doctor, what are the risks or dangers associated with vascular malformations?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Vascular malformations are congenital or acquired abnormalities in vascular structure, involving abnormal dilation, tortuosity, proliferation, or absence in different parts of arteries, veins, capillaries, and lymphatic vessels. This condition can occur in any part of the body, but is commonly found in the brain, face, neck, limbs, and internal organs. The harmful effects of vascular malformations are mainly reflected in the following aspects:
1. Impact on blood flow: Vascular malformations may obstruct or cause abnormal blood flow, thereby affecting blood supply to various tissues and organs. Insufficient blood supply may trigger symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, headache, and vomiting, and in severe cases, even threaten the patient's life.
2. Effects on the skin and limbs: When vascular malformations occur in the skin and limbs, patients may experience reddening of the skin and thickening or elongation of limbs. As the condition progresses, swelling and pain in the limbs may develop, ultimately affecting mobility.
3. Effects on the brain and nerves: Cerebrovascular malformations are particularly dangerous as they may cause severe functional impairments or even endanger life. These malformations can lead to speech disorders, difficulty swallowing, facial paralysis, and other symptoms. Severe cases may result in intracerebral hemorrhage, causing loss of consciousness, shock, or even death.
4. Risk of bleeding: The vessel walls in areas affected by vascular malformations are generally weaker than normal vessels, making them prone to rupture and bleeding. In the brain, vascular malformations may cause cerebral hemorrhage, leading to serious neurological dysfunction or life-threatening situations; in the gastrointestinal tract, they may cause gastrointestinal bleeding.
5. Risk of infection: Blood stagnation and poor circulation in regions with vascular malformations increase the risk of infection. Patients with lymphatic malformations are particularly prone to skin infections and lymphangitis.
If vascular malformation is suspected, prompt medical attention is recommended to avoid delays in treatment.
